Ambush predators: They got the look

Ambush predators, also called sit-and-wait predators, are carnivorous animals that get to their meals by stealth or by strategy rather than by speed or by strength. Ambush predators sit and wait for prey, often from a concealed position and, in the case of our marine candidates here, concealing themselves by different methods of camouflage. Blending in has created some remarkable features, giving these creatures quite unique looks.

As one would expect from animals specialised to suck their prey in, their heads and in particular their mouths are quite large in comparison to their overall body size. By opening their mouth quickly, they create a sucking motion strong enough to catch and swallow their prey in one bite.

Some ambush predators, like the frogfish, even lure their prey closer which is called aggressive mimicry. Others, like scorpionfishes, add short and rapid movements to broaden their striking distance. All of these fashion monsters have one attitude in common: Whenever their prey comes close enough, they just suck it up.

Look into their eyes: