Oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau) is a saltwater, brackish species recorded in the United States. It is mainly found over reef, at depths of 0–5 m.
Scientific name: Opsanus tau · Water: Saltwater, Brackish
Size: up to 43.2 cm
The oyster toadfish is a batrachoidid that largely inhabits inshore water on rocky bottoms and reefs, jetties and wrecks, frequently among litter, and it tolerates polluted water. It is recorded from the surface down to 5 m, and it also enters brackish water. It is becoming important as an experimental fish because of its size and hardiness, and it has been reared in captivity. Maximum length is about 43.2 cm total length. It is a commercial species, a gamefish and a public aquarium fish. Fishing vulnerability is moderate to high at 50 of 100 and resilience low. IUCN lists it as least concern.
Caution: has venomous spines. Take great care when unhooking and handling; the sting is extremely painful.
Back to home · United States · Species library