Fin's Fish Guide
The Deepwater tonguefish (Symphurus piger) is a saltwater fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 15 cm.
North America: Bahamas, Belize, Virgin Is. (UK), Colombia, Cuba, French Guiana and others
Description
The deepwater tonguefish is a very small tonguefish (Cynoglossidae) from deeper coastal waters of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 15 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 the continental margin and eats small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Deepwater tonguefish?
The Deepwater tonguefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Deepwater tonguefish live?
The Deepwater tonguefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Bahamas, Belize, Virgin Is. (UK), Colombia, Cuba, French Guiana and others
How big does the Deepwater tonguefish get?
The Deepwater tonguefish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Deepwater tonguefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Deepwater 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.
Want the complete picture on the Deepwater tonguefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Deepwater 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 Deepwater tonguefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Deepwater tonguefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.