Fin's Fish Guide
The Notched flathead (Onigocia macrolepis) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Asia: Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan and others
Description
The Notched flathead is a flathead (Platycephalidae) from shallow coastal water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a strongly flattened, rearward-tapering, sandy body with a broad, bony, spiny head and eyes on top of the head. As an ambush predator it lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms and seizes passing small fish and crustaceans. The sharp head and gill-cover spines can give a cut when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Notched flathead?
The Notched flathead has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Notched flathead live?
The Notched flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan and others
How big does the Notched flathead get?
The Notched flathead grows to a maximum of about 17 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Notched flathead dangerous to humans?
The Notched 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Onigocia
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Notched flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Notched flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.