Fin's Fish Guide
The Flathead sillago (Sillaginopsis panijus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Sillaginidae that grows up to 44 cm.
Description
The flathead sillago is a sillago (Sillaginidae) from coastal, brackish and estuarine water of the northern Indian Ocean, off South Asia. The species grows to about 44 cm and has an elongate, pale body with a notably flattened, broad head and small eyes, adapted to turbid estuarine water. As a bottom-dweller it digs with its snout in sand and mud bottoms for worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flathead sillago?
The Flathead sillago has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Flathead sillago live?
The Flathead sillago lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Bangladesh, Myanmar, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand
How big does the Flathead sillago get?
The Flathead sillago grows to a maximum of about 44 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Flathead sillago dangerous to humans?
No, the Flathead sillago 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 Flathead sillago edible?
Yes, the Flathead sillago is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Sillaginidae
Want the complete picture on the Flathead sillago?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flathead sillago is one of 12,519 species in the app.