Orange Gulf Toadfish (Opsanus Beta)

Species Name : Opsanus Beta

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Aggressive

Reef Safe : No

Invert Safe : No

Community Safe : No

Color : Orange, Brown

Diet : Carnivore

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 74-80° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max Size : 12"

Origin : Western Atlantic

Family : Batrachoididae

Min Tank Size : 80 gallons

English language common names of this fish include Orange Gulf Toadfish (Opsanus Beta), Dogfish, Mudfish, and Oysterdog. It’s named because it produces a toad-like grunt and whistle to attract a mate. 

They have a flattened body with a very large mouth and are often light to dark orange in color. The head is flattened with a wide gapping mouth. Small barbs and flaps are found around the lower jaw and gills.

The Orange Toadfish is an interesting bottom predator for a large aggressive tank of at least 80 gallons. Provide soft substrate and plenty of live rock for shelter. Toadfish can generally tolerate less pristine water quality than other fish, but still need to provide adequate filtration. They are hardy and can handle large fluctuations in tank specs. 

These fish have been known to prey on tankmates and will especially eat inverts like shrimp and crabs. Do not keep with small fish or in a reef aquarium. House single or with non-competing larger aggressive fish.

The Gulf Toadfish is an opportunistic feeder and feeds on the bottom. They will usually eat chunks of bait, especially wide baits, such as cut squid or frozen fish.