Fin's Fish Guide
The Batfish (Ephippus orbis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ephippidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The orbfish is a spadefish (Ephippidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a deep, almost round, strongly laterally compressed, silvery body with faint dark bars. It lives in shallow coastal water over mud bottoms. As a bottom hunter it feeds on bottom invertebrates and small fishes near the bottom. Juveniles are more darkly banded and often shelter among floating material. The species is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Batfish?
The Batfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Deep, almost round silvery body; bottom-dwelling spadefish of shallow muddy coastal waters.
Where does the Batfish live?
The Batfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; shallow coastal water over muddy bottoms.
How big does the Batfish get?
The Batfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Batfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Batfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Batfish edible?
Yes, the 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 Ephippus
More from the family Ephippidae
Want the complete picture on the Batfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Batfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.