Fin's Fish Guide
The Rounded batfish (Zalieutes elater) is a saltwater fish of the family Ogcocephalidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Eastern Pacific; sandy bottoms of coastal waters and continental shelf.
Description
The roundel batfish is a bottom fish of the batfish family (Ogcocephalidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a strongly flattened, triangular body with arm-like pectoral and pelvic fins with which it 'walks' over the sand bottom rather than swimming; on the back it bears conspicuous round, eyespot-like markings. Beneath the snout is a small, retractable lure to attract prey. As a slow bottom hunter it feeds on small crustaceans and small fishes. Owing to its camouflaged, slow-moving habits it is little noticed. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rounded batfish?
The Rounded batfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Triangular, flattened body with round eyespots; 'walks' on arm-like fins and lures prey with a lure organ.
Where does the Rounded batfish live?
The Rounded batfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; sandy bottoms of coastal waters and continental shelf.
How big does the Rounded batfish get?
The Rounded batfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Rounded batfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Rounded batfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rounded batfish edible?
The Rounded batfish 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 Zalieutes
More from the family Ogcocephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Rounded batfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rounded batfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.