Fin's Fish Guide
The Nigerian tonguesole (Cynoglossus browni) is a saltwater fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries.
Description
The Nigerian tonguesole is a long, tongue-shaped flatfish of the family Cynoglossidae (tonguefishes) reaching about 40 cm. The narrow, rearward-tapering body has a rounded, hook-shaped snout; the dorsal, tail and anal fins merge into a continuous fringe. Both eyes lie close together on the left side of the head. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of turbid coastal water and estuaries along the West African coast. On the bottom it searches, mainly at night, for worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. With its fine flesh it is a valued commercial fish in West Africa, landed by the coastal fishery.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Nigerian tonguesole?
The Nigerian tonguesole has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Long, tongue-shaped flatfish with a rounded, hook-shaped snout; the dorsal, caudal and anal fins run continuously into one another.
Where does the Nigerian tonguesole live?
The Nigerian tonguesole lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries.
How big does the Nigerian tonguesole get?
The Nigerian tonguesole grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Nigerian tonguesole dangerous to humans?
No, the Nigerian tonguesole is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Nigerian tonguesole edible?
Yes, the Nigerian tonguesole is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Nigerian tonguesole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Nigerian tonguesole is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Nigerian tonguesole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Nigerian tonguesole is one of 12,519 species in the app.