Oogling the Oyster Toadfish
The oyster toadfish, also known as the ugly toad, oyster cracker, oyster catcher, and the bar dog (Opsanus tau) is a species of fish found in the Atlantic Ocean, along the North American coast from the Caribbean to the US-Canadian boarder. As juveniles they reside in coastal estuaries, and as adults they move out to shallow oyster reefs and rocky intertidal areas. Bar dogs are noted for being particularly tolerant of polluted waters.
The oyster cracker begins its spawning period in May and continues through August. Males and females move into the estuary, where the males excavate nests under rocks and make calls known as 'boatwhistles' using their swim bladders. Attracted females deposit a clutch of eggs for the male to fertilize, then leaves. The males remain and protect the nest; the eggs hatch after about a month, and juveniles remain with their fathers for another week or two. Young ugly toads reach full maturity at anywhere from 2–7 years and have a lifespan of 8 years.
Adult O. tau can reach anywhere from 30-43 cm (12-17 in). they have oblong, flat bodies which allows them to fit under rocks and into tight crevices. They tend to be drab in color, usually olive or brown with black mottling, although they do have some ability to change their color to match their surroundings. The ugly toad is named for its distinctive bulging eyes and wide mouth, which is lined with fringes that act like whiskers to help them detect prey.
Oyster catchers feed mainly on oysters, as well as crabs, squid, and marine worms, which they ambush at night and crush with their powerful jaws and strong teeth. Few other fish go after adult O. tau due to the fish's sharp gills and venomous spines. However, they are known to be predated upon by dolphins, sharks and marine birds like cormorants.
Conservation status: The oyster toadfish is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. They have a large, robust population that's resistant to pollution; however, they may become vulnerable to overfishing or the loss of their primary prey.
Photos
Will Parson
David Gardner
Erickson Smith
