Hidden in plain sight
This group of fish are experts at camouflage and hide in plain sight. They normally rest on the bottom and do not have a typical fishlike shape. The identification group is therefore called “Odd-Shaped Bottom-Dwellers”. You can learn more about identification groups in the Fish Identification Specialty.
Frog fish
Masters of disguise, anglerfish are a fascinating group with over 47 known species. The species found in Bonaire’s waters is the long-lure frogfish, easily recognized by its short, round body. These small fish typically measure under 20 cm and have thick skin covered in specialized scales called dermal spicules. The spicules create a rough, wart-like texture, resembling a toad’s skin.
Long-lure frogfish have small eyes, an oversized upward-facing mouth, and unique pectoral fins attached to stalk-like structures. Their gill openings are tiny and located behind the pectoral fins. Known for their expert camouflage, they are often difficult to spot but can sometimes be found in rocky areas or hidden between reef formations.
Seahorses
The long-snouted seahorse a small-sized fish the average size is more or less 12 cm. Its head and dorsal ridge have often some more or less long and numerous dermal filaments which can be simple or bifid. Colors range from dark green to different variants of brown to yellow, and the body is often speckled with small white dots.
Scorpion fish
Scorpionfish are bottom-dwelling predators known for their incredible camouflage and venomous spines. Although they are often mistaken for stonefish, scorpionfish are a distinct species with over 200 known varieties found in oceans around the world. Most scorpionfish thrive in the Indian and South Pacific Oceans, where warm waters and coral reefs create the perfect hiding spots for hunting prey and avoiding predators.
Their bodies play a crucial role in remaining unseen. With feathery fins and skin flaps, they camouflage perfectly into coral reefs or rocky seabeds. While some species have dull, mottled brown or yellow tones, others, in contrast, feature vibrant red or orange hues. This natural camouflage makes them almost invisible in their surroundings.
Beyond camouflage, scorpionfish have a powerful defense – sharp spines filled with venom. When a predator makes contact, the venom injects instantly, acting as a powerful defense mechanism. Their combination of stealth and defense makes them one of the most fascinating and well-adapted marine species.
