Fin's Fish Guide
The Canary tonguesole (Cynoglossus canariensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The Canary tonguesole is a long, tongue-shaped flatfish of the family Cynoglossidae (tonguefishes) reaching about 60 cm. The narrow, rearward-tapering body has a rounded, hook-shaped snout; the dorsal, tail and anal fins merge into a continuous fringe. Both eyes lie close together on the left side of the head. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of turbid coastal water and estuaries along the West African coast and tolerates brackish water. On the bottom it searches, mainly at night, for worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. With its fine flesh it is a valued commercial fish in West Africa.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Canary tonguesole?
The Canary tonguesole has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Long, tongue-shaped flatfish with a rounded, hook-shaped snout; the dorsal, caudal and anal fins run continuously into one another.
Where does the Canary tonguesole live?
The Canary tonguesole lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Canary tonguesole get?
The Canary tonguesole grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Canary tonguesole dangerous to humans?
No, the Canary tonguesole is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Canary tonguesole edible?
Yes, the Canary tonguesole is a highly prized food fish.
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Status & sources
Same genus Cynoglossus
More from the family Cynoglossidae
Want the complete picture on the Canary tonguesole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Canary tonguesole is one of 12,519 species in the app.