Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded tonguefish (Symphurus fasciolaris) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The banded tonguefish is a tonguefish (Cynoglossidae) from the eastern Pacific. As a tonguefish it has a very asymmetric, leaf-shaped body with both eyes on an upward-facing side and a pointed tail that merges with the dorsal and anal fin. It lives bottom-bound on sandy bottoms of coastal waters and sometimes enters estuaries. As a bottom hunter it feeds on small bottom invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded tonguefish?
The Banded tonguefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Leaf-shaped tonguefish with a tapering tail that merges into the fin fringe; bottom hunter on sand.
Where does the Banded tonguefish live?
The Banded tonguefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; sandy bottoms of coastal waters.
How big does the Banded tonguefish get?
The Banded tonguefish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Banded tonguefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded tonguefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded tonguefish edible?
The Banded tonguefish is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Banded tonguefish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Symphurus
More from the family Cynoglossidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded tonguefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded tonguefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.