Fin's Fish Guide
The Largescale tonguefish (Symphurus minor) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Western Atlantic; bays and shallow coastal waters with live-bottom habitats.
Description
The largescale tonguefish is a small flatfish of the tonguefish family (Cynoglossidae) from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 9 cm and has an elongate, tongue-shaped, tapering body with both eyes on the left side and dorsal, tail and anal fins running into one another. It inhabits bays and shallow coastal waters, often on so-called live-bottom habitats with growth. As a bottom hunter it feeds on small crustaceans, worms and other small bottom animals. Owing to its camouflaged, bottom-bound habits it is little noticed. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Largescale tonguefish?
The Largescale tonguefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Tongue-shaped body with both eyes on the left and fins merging into one another; inhabitant of live-bottom habitats.
Where does the Largescale tonguefish live?
The Largescale tonguefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; bays and shallow coastal waters with live-bottom habitats.
How big does the Largescale tonguefish get?
The Largescale tonguefish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Largescale tonguefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Largescale tonguefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Largescale tonguefish edible?
The Largescale tonguefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Symphurus
More from the family Cynoglossidae
Want the complete picture on the Largescale tonguefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Largescale tonguefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.