Fin's Fish Guide
The Regan's ghost flathead (Hoplichthys regani) is a saltwater fish of the family Hoplichthyidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Regan's ghost flathead is a ghost flathead (Hoplichthyidae) of the continental slope in the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has an extremely flat, elongate, sandy body with a broad, armoured head, high-set eyes and a row of bony, thorned plates along the flank; the lower pectoral rays are free and finger-like. As a bottom-dweller of deeper water it feels over sand and snaps at small crustaceans and small fish. The sharp head and plate spines can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Regan's ghost flathead?
The Regan's ghost flathead has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Regan's ghost flathead live?
The Regan's ghost flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Japan
How big does the Regan's ghost flathead get?
The Regan's ghost flathead grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Regan's ghost flathead dangerous to humans?
The Regan's ghost 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 Hoplichthys
More from the family Hoplichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Regan's ghost flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Regan's ghost flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.