Fin's Fish Guide
The Ocellated tonguefish (Symphurus ommaspilus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 4 cm.
North America: Virgin Is. (US), Bahamas, Belize, Cuba, Curaçao I., Puerto Rico
Description
The ocellated tonguefish is a small tonguefish (Cynoglossidae) from warm coastal waters of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 4 cm and has an elongate, strongly flattened, leaf-shaped body with both eyes on the left side and one or more dark eyespots on the rear flank. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms and searches for tiny invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ocellated tonguefish?
The Ocellated tonguefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Ocellated tonguefish live?
The Ocellated tonguefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Virgin Is. (US), Bahamas, Belize, Cuba, Curaçao I., Puerto Rico
How big does the Ocellated tonguefish get?
The Ocellated tonguefish grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Ocellated tonguefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ocellated 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.
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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 Ocellated tonguefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ocellated tonguefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.