Fin's Fish Guide
The Celebes flathead (Thysanophrys celebica) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Asia: United Arab Em., Tanzania, Australia, Bahrain, Solomon Is., Cambodia and others
Description
The Celebes flathead is a flathead (Platycephalidae) from shallow sand and reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a strongly flattened, elongate, sandy mottled body with a broad, flat head, high-set eyes and spines on the head and gill cover. As a motionless ambush predator it lies half-buried and camouflaged on the bottom and snaps at passing small fish and crustaceans. The sharp head and gill-cover spines can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Celebes flathead?
The Celebes flathead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Celebes flathead live?
The Celebes flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: United Arab Em., Tanzania, Australia, Bahrain, Solomon Is., Cambodia and others
How big does the Celebes flathead get?
The Celebes flathead grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Celebes flathead dangerous to humans?
The Celebes flathead can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp head or fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thysanophrys
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Celebes flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Celebes flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.