Fin's Fish Guide
The Flatheads (Sunagocia otaitensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The fringelip flathead is a flathead from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a strongly flattened, brown-mottled body and a broad, flat head with skin fringes around the eyes and lips, making it blend in perfectly on sand and reef bottoms. As an ambush hunter it lies still on the bottom and snaps lightning-fast at passing fish and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans and is prized by divers. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flatheads?
The Flatheads has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Broad flat head with skin fringes; camouflaged ambush predator
Where does the Flatheads live?
The Flatheads lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Flatheads get?
The Flatheads grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 19 cm.
Is the Flatheads dangerous to humans?
No, the Flatheads 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 Flatheads edible?
The Flatheads is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sunagocia
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Flatheads?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flatheads is one of 12,519 species in the app.