How to Identify Sand Flathead

To identify Sand Flathead (Platycephalus arenarius), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically sandy brown to grey, often mottled with darker spots and blotches, providing excellent camouflage against sandy or muddy bottoms. Ventral surface is white. Fins may have faint banding or spotting.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Greatly flattened head and body, Large, upward-facing eyes positioned dorsally, Two distinct dorsal fins, Prominent preopercular spines, A dark spot or blotch often present on the caudal fin

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is short with 8-9 spines, the second is longer with 11-13 soft rays. The first dorsal spine is typically short.

Tail fin

Rounded to truncate caudal fin, often with a dark spot or blotch.

Pectoral fin

Large and rounded, with 18-20 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins, and are relatively large.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Head Shape

   Extremely flattened and broad, with eyes positioned on top of the head.

2. 2

   Preopercular Spines

   Possesses two prominent spines on the preoperculum (gill cover). The lower spine is typically longer than the upper.

3. 3

   Caudal Fin Spot

   Often has a distinct dark spot or blotch on the upper lobe of the caudal fin, though this can vary in prominence.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Mottled sandy brown to grey dorsal coloration with a white belly, providing excellent camouflage.

5. 5

   First Dorsal Fin

   The first dorsal fin has a relatively short first spine, which can help distinguish it from some other flathead species.

Explore Sand Flathead