Anglerfish size varies widely depending on the species and sex. Most anglerfish are relatively small, typically less than a foot (around 30 cm) in length. However, some species can grow much larger, reaching lengths of up to about 3.3 to 4 feet (1 to 1.2 meters)
. There is significant sexual dimorphism in many anglerfish species, with females being much larger than males. For example, females of some deep-sea species can reach around 77 cm (2.5 feet) or more, while males are often only a few centimeters long and may even attach to the females parasitically
. Some of the largest anglerfish species include the European monkfish (Lophius piscatorius), which can reach up to 2 meters (6.6 feet), and the deep-sea Ceratias holboelli , which can grow up to about 1.2 meters (3.9 feet)
. In summary:
- Most anglerfish: under 1 foot (30 cm)
- Larger species: up to 3.3–4 feet (1–1.2 meters)
- Largest species (e.g., monkfish): up to 6.6 feet (2 meters)
- Males are much smaller than females, often just a few centimeters
This size range reflects the diversity of anglerfish, from small deep-sea dwellers to relatively large bottom-dwelling species.
