Common Name: Eastern Frogfish

Distribution: Common throughout the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Endemic to Australia, range extends from central Queensland to southern New South Wales.

Ecological Notes: Prefers rocky inshore reef with macroalgae and silty habitats, commonly found in Sydney Harbour. Depth from subtidal to at least 150 m.

Additional Notes: Colour may be variable, from mottled brown to pale grey, usually with two broad bands across the body and scattered spots. Eastern Frogfish are carnivores and have expandable stomachs. They feed on crustaceans, molluscs and fishes, swallowing their prey whole. Sometimes mistaken for Halophryne queenslandiae, the absence of an orange spot adjacent to the dorsal fin distinguishes this species. Grows to 35 cm.

References: Kuiter, R. H., Coastal Fishes of South-Eastern Australia. Published by Crawford House Press Pty. Ltd., 1993. p. 44.