How to Identify Bartail Flathead

To identify Bartail Flathead (Platycephalus indicus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically mottled brown, grey, or olive, providing excellent camouflage against sandy or muddy substrates. Ventral surface is whitish. Distinctive dark bars or spots on the caudal fin, which can be quite prominent.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Greatly depressed and broad head, often with bony ridges and spines, Large, upward-pointing eyes located dorsally on the head, Large mouth extending to below the eye, with numerous small, sharp teeth, Two distinct dorsal fins, Caudal fin with prominent dark bars or spots, giving rise to the 'bartail' common name, Preopercular spine present, often with an accessory spine

Dorsal fin

First dorsal fin with 8-9 spines; second dorsal fin with 13-14 soft rays. The first dorsal spine is typically short.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly rounded, with characteristic dark bars or spots.

Pectoral fin

Relatively large and rounded, with 19-21 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins, and are often used to prop the fish up on the substrate.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Head Shape

   Look for the very broad, flattened head with eyes positioned dorsally. Bony ridges and spines on the head are characteristic.

2. 2

   Caudal Fin Markings

   The most distinguishing feature is the presence of dark bars or spots on the caudal (tail) fin, which are usually quite clear.

3. 3

   Body Coloration

   Its mottled brown/grey/olive coloration provides excellent camouflage against sandy or muddy bottoms.

4. 4

   Mouth

   Observe the large, wide mouth with a slightly upward-pointing gape, indicative of its predatory, ambush feeding strategy.

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