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Wartskin Angler Fish

$26499
SKU: w_fish082025.11

Tags:   Non Reef Safe WYSIWYG Fish

WYSIWYG - Approx. Size: 4 Inches

The Wartskin Angler is one of the most bizarre yet captivating reef fish, famous for its incredible camouflage and unusual movement. Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, this ambush predator features a stocky body covered in wart-like bumps and vibrant mottled coloration that can include shades of red, orange, yellow, or white. With its lure-like appendage (illicium), the Wartskin Angler attracts prey directly to its oversized mouth, making it a fascinating addition to a species-focused or predator display aquarium.

Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (larger recommended if housing with other fish)

  • Environment: Rocky or coral aquascape with caves, ledges, and surfaces to perch on

  • Flow: Low — prefers calm areas where it can rest and ambush prey

  • Lid: Required — anglers are known jumpers despite their sedentary nature

Wartskin Anglers do best in aquariums designed to highlight their camouflage, with stable water quality and plenty of perching areas.

Natural Behavior

This species is a master of disguise, blending seamlessly into rockwork or corals. They are solitary and spend most of their time sitting motionless, waiting to ambush prey. Movement is slow and “walking-like” rather than free swimming, but when threatened or feeding, they can strike with surprising speed.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous ambush predator:

  • Live or frozen meaty foods (small fish, shrimp, silversides)

  • Frozen krill or mysis (for juveniles)

  • Avoid overfeeding — they have expandable stomachs and can consume surprisingly large meals

Feed 2–3 times per week; they do not require daily feeding. Train onto frozen foods early for long-term success.

Tankmates & Compatibility

  • Temperament: Predatory, not aggressive — will consume fish and invertebrates small enough to fit in its mouth

  • Reef Safe: With caution — safe with corals, but not with small ornamental shrimp or fish

  • Best With: Larger, non-aggressive species such as tangs, triggers, and angels (that won’t fit in its mouth)

  • Avoid: Small gobies, firefish, or ornamental crustaceans — all will be eaten

The Wartskin Angler is one of the ocean’s most unusual predators, combining cryptic camouflage, quirky movement, and a fascinating hunting style — a true showpiece for advanced aquarists.