Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortheaded tonguesole (Cynoglossus kopsii) is a saltwater fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong and others
Description
The Shortheaded tonguesole is a tonguesole (Cynoglossidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a strongly flattened, tongue-shaped body with both eyes on the left side, a down-curved mouth and a finely mottled, brown upper side for camouflage. As a bottom-bound fish it lies half-buried in sand and mud and searches for small worms, crustaceans and molluscs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortheaded tonguesole?
The Shortheaded tonguesole has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Shortheaded tonguesole live?
The Shortheaded tonguesole lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong and others
How big does the Shortheaded tonguesole get?
The Shortheaded tonguesole grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Shortheaded tonguesole dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortheaded tonguesole 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 Cynoglossus
More from the family Cynoglossidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortheaded tonguesole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortheaded tonguesole is one of 12,519 species in the app.