Fin's Fish Guide
The Oblong slipmouth (Equulites stercorarius) is a saltwater fish of the family Leiognathidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The oblong slipmouth is a small, laterally strongly compressed fish from the Indo-West Pacific, from Indonesia and the Philippines to Guam and recently Tonga. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a shiny silvery body with a strongly protrusible mouth, characteristic of the slipmouths. It lives on shallow inner reef flats and in silty coastal water and has light-producing organs around the gullet. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Oblong slipmouth?
The Oblong slipmouth has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Highly protrusible mouth; light organs around the oesophagus
Where does the Oblong slipmouth live?
The Oblong slipmouth lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Oblong slipmouth get?
The Oblong slipmouth grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Oblong slipmouth dangerous to humans?
No, the Oblong slipmouth 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 Oblong slipmouth edible?
Yes, the Oblong slipmouth is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Equulites
More from the family Leiognathidae
Want the complete picture on the Oblong slipmouth?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Oblong slipmouth is one of 12,519 species in the app.