The Northern tonguefish (Symphurus pusillus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The northern tonguefish is a small tongue sole from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 8 cm and has an oblong, tongue-shaped, strongly flattened body with both eyes on the left side and long, continuous fin margins that merge around the tail. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried in sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf, between about 100 and 235 metres, and searches for small worms and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Northern tonguefish?
The Northern tonguefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Northern tonguefish live?
The Northern tonguefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Northern tonguefish get?
The Northern tonguefish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Northern tonguefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Northern tonguefish is harmless to humans.
Is the Northern tonguefish edible?
The Northern tonguefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Symphurus
More from the family Cynoglossidae
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