Fin's Fish Guide
The Halftooth flathead (Sorsogona prionota) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The halftooth flathead is a flathead (Platycephalidae) from shallow coastal water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a strongly flattened, rearward-tapering, sandy body with a broad, flat, spiny head and eyes on top of the head. As an ambush predator it lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms and seizes passing small fish and crustaceans. The sharp head and gill-cover spines can give a cut when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Halftooth flathead?
The Halftooth flathead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Halftooth flathead live?
The Halftooth flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Halftooth flathead get?
The Halftooth flathead grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Halftooth flathead dangerous to humans?
The Halftooth flathead can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin or head spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sorsogona
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Halftooth flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Halftooth flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.