Fin's Fish Guide
The Somali flathead (Cociella somaliensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Somali flathead is a flathead (Platycephalidae) from shallow sand and mud water of the western Indian Ocean off Somalia. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a strongly flattened, elongate, sandy mottled 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 Somali flathead?
The Somali flathead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Somali flathead live?
The Somali flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Somalia
How big does the Somali flathead get?
The Somali flathead grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Somali flathead dangerous to humans?
The Somali 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.
Want the complete picture on the Somali flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Somali flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cociella
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Somali flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Somali flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.