Fin's Fish Guide
The Banka flathead (Cymbacephalus bosschei) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The Banka flathead is a flathead from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a strongly flattened, brown-mottled body and a broad, flat head, well suited to life on sand and mud bottoms. As an ambush hunter it lies half-buried on the bottom between about 10 and 50 metres depth and snaps at passing fish and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans and is a local bycatch. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banka flathead?
The Banka flathead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Broad flat head; half-buried ambush predator
Where does the Banka flathead live?
The Banka flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Banka flathead get?
The Banka flathead grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Banka flathead dangerous to humans?
No, the Banka flathead is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Banka flathead edible?
The Banka flathead is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cymbacephalus
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Banka flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banka flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.