Fin's Fish Guide
The Northern tonguefish (Symphurus pusillus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The northern tonguefish is a small tongue sole from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 8 cm and has an oblong, tongue-shaped, strongly flattened body with both eyes on the left side and long, continuous fin margins that merge around the tail. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried in sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf, between about 100 and 235 metres, and searches for small worms and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Northern tonguefish?
The Northern tonguefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Tongue-shaped flattened body with the eyes on the left side; burrowing dwarf tonguefish
Where does the Northern tonguefish live?
The Northern tonguefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic
How big does the Northern tonguefish get?
The Northern tonguefish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Northern tonguefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Northern tonguefish 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 Northern tonguefish edible?
The Northern tonguefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Northern tonguefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Northern tonguefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.