Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted-tail duckbill (Bembrops caudimacula) is a saltwater fish of the family Percophidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Indian and western Pacific Ocean, on soft bottoms of the deeper continental shelf and the upper slope.
Description
The spotted-tail duckbill is a slender bottom fish of the family Percophidae (duckbills) reaching about 24 cm. The flattened head extends into a broad, flattened, duck-bill-like snout, with large eyes directed upward and forward - features suited to a life lying on soft bottoms, watching for prey; a dark spot sits on the tail. The species lives on soft bottoms of the deeper continental shelf and upper slope of the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. On the bottom it ambushes small crustaceans, shrimps and small fish. Because of its deep lifestyle and small size it has no fishery value and is only rarely seen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted-tail duckbill?
The Spotted-tail duckbill has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Slender bottom fish with a flattened head, a broad, duckbill-like snout, large upward-directed eyes and a blotch on the tail.
Where does the Spotted-tail duckbill live?
The Spotted-tail duckbill lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indian and western Pacific Ocean, on soft bottoms of the deeper continental shelf and the upper slope.
How big does the Spotted-tail duckbill get?
The Spotted-tail duckbill grows to a maximum of about 24 cm.
Is the Spotted-tail duckbill dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted-tail duckbill is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotted-tail duckbill edible?
The Spotted-tail duckbill is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bembrops
More from the family Percophidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted-tail duckbill?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted-tail duckbill is one of 12,519 species in the app.