Monkfish

The monkfish is a unique fish. It is also known as anglerfish, fishing frog, lawyerfish, bellyfish, and goosefish. The monk fish has apeculiar head that is covered with spiny protruberances and a pair of antennae that have lures of fake algae to lure fish to it for consumption. Monkfish lie on the ocean floor and wait for smaller fish to approach its special lure before it attacks. They grow to lengths of 1.5 m (5 ft) and weigh 20 kg (45 lbs). Harvested monkfish are usually smaller.Monkfish are live on the ocean bottom, typically on sand, mud, and shell habitats. They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and depths from inshore up to at least 2,950 feet deep.

Few males are seen older than age 7, females live longer than males, to at least 13 years and likely more Monkfish are opportunistic feeders, feeding on whatever prey is available at the time. Adults mainly eat fish, including other monkfish, but also consume crustaceans, mollusks, seabirds, and diving ducks. Larvae feed on zooplankton (tiny floating animals); juveniles eat mostly small fish including sand lance, as well as shrimp and squid. Interesting fishing news.