Fin's Fish Guide
The Smallscale tonguesole (Cynoglossus microlepis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 33 cm.
Description
The smallscale tonguesole is a tonguefish (Cynoglossidae) from fresh, brackish and coastal water of Southeast Asia, including the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins. The species grows to about 33 cm and has a tongue-shaped, strongly flattened, brownish body with both eyes on the left side and the dorsal, caudal and anal fins fused into a continuous fin margin. As a bottom-dweller it lies on sand and mud bottoms of rivers and estuaries and snaps at small worms and crustaceans. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smallscale tonguesole?
The Smallscale tonguesole has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Smallscale tonguesole live?
The Smallscale tonguesole lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Smallscale tonguesole get?
The Smallscale tonguesole grows to a maximum of about 33 cm.
Is the Smallscale tonguesole dangerous to humans?
No, the Smallscale 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.
Is the Smallscale tonguesole edible?
Yes, the Smallscale tonguesole is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Smallscale tonguesole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smallscale tonguesole is one of 12,519 species in the app.