Fin's Fish Guide
The Long tonguesole (Cynoglossus lingua) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The long tonguesole is a tonguefish from the Indo-West Pacific, in coastal and brackish water of South Asia. The species grows to about 45 cm and has an elongate, tongue-shaped, strongly asymmetric flatfish body with both eyes on one side and a continuous fin fringe. As a bottom-dweller it lies buried on sandy and muddy bottoms of river mouths and coastal water and feeds on small bottom animals. It is a valued food fish and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Long tonguesole?
The Long tonguesole has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Elongate tongue-shaped flatfish body; buried estuary dweller
Where does the Long tonguesole live?
The Long tonguesole lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Long tonguesole get?
The Long tonguesole grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Long tonguesole dangerous to humans?
No, the Long tonguesole 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 Long tonguesole edible?
Yes, the Long tonguesole is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cynoglossus
More from the family Cynoglossidae
Want the complete picture on the Long tonguesole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Long tonguesole is one of 12,519 species in the app.