ANIMAL SPECIES:Celebes Flathead, Thysanophrys celebica (Bleeker, 1854)
As the common name suggests, these fish are distinguished by their flattened head shape and are close relatives of scorpionfishes (scorpaenidae). They are seldom noticed due to their protective colouration and habit of burying themselves in the sand.
Identification
The Celebes Flathead has an elongate body and a moderately depressed head. Its iris lappets have short branches.
This species is brown to greenish above and pale below. The back may be crossed by four or five dark bars. There are dark spots on the pectoral and pelvic fins and a distinct dark bar under the eye.
Size range
It grows to at least 15 cm in length.Distribution
The species is found in the Indo-West Pacific and from northern to southern Queensland in Australia.
Distribution by collection data
Biomaps map of Celebes Flathead specimens in the Australian Museum collection.
Habitat
The Celebes Flathead is a benthic species that occurs in tropical inshore and coral reef waters. It is usually seen on sandy substrates.
Classification
- Species:
- celebica
- Genus:
- Thysanophrys
- Family:
- Platycephalidae
- Class:
- Actinopterygii
References
- Knapp, L.W. in Carpenter, K.E. & V.H. Niem. 1999. The Living Marine Resources of the Western Central Pacific. Volume 4. Bony fishes part 2 (Mugilidae to Carangidae). FAO. Rome Pp. iii-v, 2069-2790.
- Michael, S.W. 1998. Reef Fishes. Volume 1. A Guide to Their Identification, Behaviour, and Captive Care. Microcosm. Pp. 624.
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A Celebes Flathead at Flores, Indonesia View full size
Rudie Kuiter
© Rudie Kuiter
Close-up head shot of a Celebes Flathead. View full size
Rudie Kuiter
© Rudie Kuiter
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