Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotfin flathead (Onigocia pedimacula) is a saltwater fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Indonesia, Maldives, New Caledonia, Pakistan and others
Description
The Spotfin flathead is a flathead (Platycephalidae) from shallow coastal water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a strongly flattened, rearward-tapering, sandy body with a broad, bony, spiny head and eyes on top of the head. As an ambush predator it lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms and seizes passing small fish and crustaceans. The sharp head and gill-cover spines can give a cut when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotfin flathead?
The Spotfin 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 Spotfin flathead live?
The Spotfin flathead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Indonesia, Maldives, New Caledonia, Pakistan and others
How big does the Spotfin flathead get?
The Spotfin flathead grows to a maximum of about 11 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Spotfin flathead dangerous to humans?
The Spotfin 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 Onigocia
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotfin flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotfin flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.