Fin's Fish Guide
The Batavia batfish (Platax batavianus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ephippidae that grows up to 65 cm.
Description
The Batavia batfish is a spadefish (Ephippidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches about 65 cm and has a very deep, strongly compressed, disc-shaped body. Juveniles are strikingly black-and-white striped; this zebra pattern provides camouflage and makes them resemble a toxic flatworm. Adults are silvery and usually live solitarily on continental reefs, on open substrates with sparse coral, often at some depth. They feed on algae, sponges, tunicates and small invertebrates. The species is regularly eaten and kept in large marine aquaria.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Batavia batfish?
The Batavia batfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Juveniles striped black and white (resembling a poisonous flatworm); adults deep-bodied and silvery.
Where does the Batavia batfish live?
The Batavia batfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, on continental reefs.
How big does the Batavia batfish get?
The Batavia batfish grows to a maximum of about 65 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Batavia batfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Batavia batfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Batavia batfish edible?
Yes, the Batavia batfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Platax
More from the family Ephippidae
Want the complete picture on the Batavia batfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Batavia batfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.