Red Angler, Super - Antennarius pictus
Red Angler, Super - Antennarius pictus
Goes well with:
FAQs Answers to the most common questions.
How big does a Super Red Angler actually get, and what tank size is appropriate for a single specimen?
Most Super Red Anglers sold in the hobby are frogfish/anglerfish-type ambush predators that stay relatively compact, usually around 4–7 inches depending on the exact species and individual growth. For one adult, a 30-gallon tank is the practical minimum, but 40–55 gallons is better because it gives room for stable water quality and a proper feeding response. They are not active swimmers, so footprint and stability matter more than height.
What do I feed a Super Red Angler, and how do I train one off live food?
They should be fed meaty marine foods such as silversides, squid, shrimp, krill, and appropriately sized marine fish or crustacean chunks. Most arrive on live food, but many can be weaned to frozen by using feeding tongs and offering food with subtle movement. Never rely on feeder goldfish; they are nutritionally poor and can cause serious long-term health issues. Feed juveniles every 1–2 days and adults about 2–4 times per week, only as much as they will consume without excess.
Can a Super Red Angler live with other fish, and if so, which tankmates are actually safe?
Tankmates are risky because Super Red Anglers are ambush predators that will eat anything they can fit in their mouth. Safe companions are limited to larger, non-aggressive fish that are too big to swallow, such as some tangs or rabbitfish in a suitably large marine system. Avoid shrimp, crabs, small fish, and anything fast enough to stress or nip the angler. In many cases, a species-only tank is the best setup.
What water conditions does a Super Red Angler need, and are they sensitive to changes?
They need stable, fully marine conditions: temperature around 74–78°F, salinity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, and zero ammonia/nitrite. They are not especially demanding about strong flow, but they do poorly with instability, poor oxygenation, or dirty water. Because they are messy eaters, strong filtration and regular maintenance are essential, but avoid blasting them with current since they prefer low-to-moderate flow and a calm environment.
Why is my Super Red Angler refusing food, and when should I worry?
Refusal is often caused by stress from transport, poor water quality, unsuitable prey size, or feeding too often. Newly acquired anglers may not eat for several days to even a couple of weeks while acclimating, especially if they were recently shipped. Worry if it is losing body mass, becoming lethargic, or refusing multiple feedings after water parameters are confirmed stable. Try smaller prey, more natural movement with feeding tongs, dimmer lighting, and a quiet tank with minimal disturbance.
