Fin's Fish Guide
The Caribbean tonguefish (Symphurus arawak) is a saltwater fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The Caribbean tonguefish is a very small tonguefish (Cynoglossidae) from the Caribbean Sea and western Atlantic. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a leaf-shaped, strongly flattened, brownish body with both eyes on the left side and the dorsal, caudal and anal fins fused into a continuous fin margin. As a bottom-dweller it lies on sand and mud bottoms of shallow coastal water and eats small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Caribbean tonguefish?
The Caribbean tonguefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Leaf-shaped tonguefish with a continuous fin fringe; eyes on the left
Where does the Caribbean tonguefish live?
The Caribbean tonguefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Caribbean tonguefish get?
The Caribbean tonguefish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Caribbean tonguefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Caribbean tonguefish 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 Caribbean tonguefish edible?
The Caribbean tonguefish is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Caribbean tonguefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Caribbean tonguefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Symphurus
More from the family Cynoglossidae
Want the complete picture on the Caribbean tonguefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Caribbean tonguefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.