Fin's Fish Guide
The Serrate flathead (Rogadius serratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Mauritius and others
Description
The Serrate flathead is a flathead (Platycephalidae) from shallow sand and mud water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a strongly flattened, elongate, sandy body with a broad, flat head, high-set eyes and spines on the head and gill cover. As a motionless ambush predator it lies half-buried and camouflaged on the bottom and snaps at passing small fish and crustaceans. The sharp head and gill-cover spines can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Serrate flathead?
The Serrate flathead has an elongate, eel-like 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 Serrate flathead live?
The Serrate flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Mauritius and others
How big does the Serrate flathead get?
The Serrate flathead grows to a maximum of about 24 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Serrate flathead dangerous to humans?
The Serrate 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 Rogadius
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Serrate flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Serrate flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.