A tiny fish is making a huge splash at the Shedd—Chicago’s largest aquarium just became the first-ever to raise a rare Warty Frogfish from the egg up!
Here’s everything to know about the aquarium’s newest resident.
Meet the Shedd’s new Warty Frogfish friend
The Shedd’s new fish friend is currently the size of a pea, according to the aquarium. However, the coral-reef dwelling sea creature punches above its tiny size!
Warty Frogfish play a big role in cultivating healthy marine ecosystems by feasting on populations of smaller fish and microorganisms, according to diy.org. The presence of the camouflaging fish signal healthy and bountiful coral reefs.
The Shedd is the first aquarium to ever successfully cultivate a Warty Frogfish within its facilities, raising the animal from a tiny egg mass found within the Wild Reef exhibit in fall of 2025.
Now, the tiny fish is thriving and adjusting to its new home. The hatching of the Warty Frogfish represents a major conservation win for the Shedd, and a milestone for the survival of the species.
“This little fish is truly one in a million,” said Jenny Richards, senior aquarist.
“Our success in rearing this fish is a testament to the expertise, adaptability and passion of the team at Shedd in caring for all aquatic animals, from large arapaima to a tiny warty frogfish larva.”
Visitors can see the tiny fish in action by visiting the Shedd and stopping by the Wild Reef exhibit. Learn more and plan your next visit here.