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Flathead trout (Salmo platycephalus) — Salmonidae

Flathead trout

Salmo platycephalus
Family: Salmonidae
CR · Critically Endangered

The Flathead trout (Salmo platycephalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 55 cm.

Length
55 cm
Water
Freshwater
Body shape
Torpedo-shaped
Substrate
Mixed bottom
Danger
Harmless
Range
Asia: Türkiye
Edibility
Commonly eaten

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Description

The flathead trout is a rare trout (Salmonidae) endemic to a few cold mountain streams of the upper Seyhan in central Turkey. The species grows to about 55 cm and has a stocky body with a notably flattened, broad head and small, dark spots. As a cold-water predator it eats insects, larvae and small invertebrates. Through its very restricted range the species is critically endangered. The fish is harmless to humans.

Frequently asked questions

How do you recognise the Flathead trout?

The Flathead trout has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.

Where does the Flathead trout live?

The Flathead trout lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Türkiye

How big does the Flathead trout get?

The Flathead trout grows to a maximum of about 55 cm.

Is the Flathead trout dangerous to humans?

No, the Flathead trout 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 trout edible?

Yes, the Flathead trout is commonly eaten.

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All data

Identification

English name
Flathead trout sourced
Scientific name
Salmo platycephalus
Family
Salmonidae
Other names
Flathead trout; Salmon; Turkish trout; Ala Balik verified

Appearance

Size class
Large verified
Max length (cm)
55.0 verified
Body shape
Torpedo-shaped sourced
Dominant colour
Brown sourced
Pattern
Spots sourced
Tail shape
Straight inferred

Habitat & distribution

Water type
Freshwater sourced
Substrate
Mixed bottom sourced
Natural range
Asia: Türkiye sourced
Origin
Native inferred

Behaviour & biology

Territorial
No inferred
Reproduction
Separate sexes inferred
Sexual dimorphism
No inferred
Seasonality
Present year-round in its habitat; no pronounced seasonality known. inferred

For anglers

Edibility
Commonly eaten inferred
Fishing method
Bottom fishing with natural bait (worm, shrimp or fish) on or just above the seabed. inferred
Regulations source
FishBase ↗ inferred

Safety

Danger to humans
Harmless verified
First aid
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. verified

Status & sources

Sources
FishBase via GBIF (DwC-A), CC-BY-NC 4.0

Same genus Salmo

More from the family Salmonidae

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