Gulf toadfish
| Gulf toadfish | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Gulf toadfish after being caught by hook and line | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Batrachoidiformes |
| Family: | Batrachoididae |
| Genus: | Opsanus |
| Species: | O. beta |
| Binomial name | |
| Opsanus beta (Goode & Bean, 1880) | |
| Synonyms | |
|
Batrachus tau beta Goode & Bean, 1880 | |
The Gulf toadfish (Opsanus beta) is a species of toadfish found in the Gulf of Mexico.[1]
Description
Gulf toadfish commonly weigh one to three lbs. and measure 11-14" but smaller ones are sometimes caught weighing a fourth of a lb. measuring 4-5".
Distribution
The Gulf toadfish is found in the Gulf of Mexico commonly inshore around bridges and structure such as pilings. They prefer shallow areas near baitfish populations.
Diet
The Gulf toadfish is an opportunistic feeder and feeds on the bottom. They prefer to be near areas supporting baitfish so that they can feed without having to travel far.
Angling
The Gulf toadfish is commonly considered a trash fish. They appear dangerous and slimy so people refrain from eating them. They will eat anglers' baits readily and prevent them from catching game fish. They will usually eat chunks of bait, especially wide baits, such as cut squid or frozen fish.
Toxins
Gulf toadfish have a slimy coating on their scales that can cause physical irritation.
As food
Gulf toadfish are hardly eaten and little is known about their flavor, but because they have toxic slime, they may be considered inedible.