Fin's Fish Guide
The Heemstra's flathead (Cociella heemstrai) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Heemstra's flathead is a flathead (Platycephalidae) from shallow sand and mud water of the western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a strongly flattened, elongate, sandy mottled body with a broad, flat head, high-set eyes and spines on the head and gill cover. As a motionless ambush predator it lies half-buried and camouflaged on the bottom and snaps at passing small fish and crustaceans. The sharp head and gill-cover spines can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Heemstra's flathead?
The Heemstra's flathead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Heemstra's flathead live?
The Heemstra's flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Kenya
How big does the Heemstra's flathead get?
The Heemstra's flathead grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Heemstra's flathead dangerous to humans?
The Heemstra's flathead can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp head or fin 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 Cociella
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Heemstra's flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Heemstra's flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.