Fin's Fish Guide
The Black flathead (Platycephalus laevigatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Temperate waters around southern Australia; inshore and over reefs, often in seagrass.
Description
The rock flathead is a flathead of the family Platycephalidae from the temperate waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about 50 cm and has an elongate body with a strongly flattened, broad head and eyes on top of the head, adapted to a bottom life. It occurs inshore and over reefs, often in seagrass beds. As an ambush bottom predator it lies half-buried or motionless in wait and seizes small fishes and crustaceans. The rock flathead is a valued angling and food fish. The head bears a few sharp spines; otherwise it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black flathead?
The Black flathead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Strongly flattened, broad head with eyes on top; half-buried ambush bottom predator.
Where does the Black flathead live?
The Black flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate waters around southern Australia; inshore and over reefs, often in seagrass.
How big does the Black flathead get?
The Black flathead grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Black flathead dangerous to humans?
No, the Black flathead is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black flathead edible?
Yes, the Black flathead is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Platycephalus
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Black flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.