Fin's Fish Guide
The Gilbert's ghost flathead (Hoplichthys gilberti) is a saltwater fish of the family Hoplichthyidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (South), Malaysia
Description
Gilbert's ghost flathead is a flathead (Hoplichthyidae) of deeper coastal and slope waters of the northwest Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a strongly flattened, rearward-tapering, pale body with a broad, bony, spiny head and projecting, finger-like lower pectoral rays with which it 'walks' over the bottom. As an ambush predator it lies half-buried on soft deeper bottoms and seizes small fish and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gilbert's ghost flathead?
The Gilbert's ghost flathead has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Gilbert's ghost flathead live?
The Gilbert's ghost flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (South), Malaysia
How big does the Gilbert's ghost flathead get?
The Gilbert's ghost flathead grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Gilbert's ghost flathead dangerous to humans?
No, the Gilbert's ghost flathead 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 Gilbert's ghost flathead?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hoplichthys
More from the family Hoplichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Gilbert's ghost flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gilbert's ghost flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.