Celebes Flathead, Thysanophrys celebica (Bleeker, 1854)

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.

What does this mean?

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

What does this mean?

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.

Mark McGrouther , Collection Manager, Ichthyology
Last Updated: 11 June 2009

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