How to Identify Rock Flathead

To identify Rock Flathead (Platycephalus laevigatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically mottled brown, grey, or olive-green, often with darker blotches and spots, providing excellent camouflage against rocky or sandy substrates. Ventral surface is usually white or pale. Fins may have faint banding or spotting.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Greatly flattened head and body, Large, upward-pointing eyes positioned dorsally on the head, Two distinct dorsal fins, the first spiny and the second soft-rayed, Prominent preopercular spines (spines on the cheek bone), Large mouth with numerous small, sharp teeth, Absence of scales on the head

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8-9 strong spines, the second with 13-15 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is typically shorter than the second.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly rounded caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large and fan-like, positioned low on the body.

Distinctive fins

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

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Head Shape

   Extremely flattened and broad, with eyes on top.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Mottled brown/grey/olive patterns for camouflage, often with darker spots or bands.

3. 3

   Preopercular Spines

   Presence of prominent, sharp spines on the operculum (gill cover) and preoperculum (cheek bone).

4. 4

   Absence of Head Scales

   The top of the head is typically scaleless, a key distinguishing feature from some other flathead species.

5. 5

   Lateral Line

   The lateral line is complete and typically straight.

Explore Rock Flathead