The Tentacled Flathead, Indian Ocean Crocodilefish (Papilloculiceps longiceps) is a fascinating and elusive fish species belonging to the Platycephalidae family. This unique creature is characterized by its flattened body shape, large head, and distinctive tentacles, making it a standout amongst marine fauna.
Description & Characteristics
Papilloculiceps longiceps is a medium-sized fish, with individuals reaching a maximum length of 70.0 cm. Its body is flattened dorsoventrally, giving it a distinct “flathead” appearance, and its head is disproportionately large. This fish is known for its prominent tentacles, which extend from the chin and upper lip, resembling a grotesque beard. The Tentacled Flathead’s coloration can vary, ranging from brown to olive green with darker blotches, and its body is covered in small scales.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Tentacled Flathead, Indian Ocean Crocodilefish (Papilloculiceps longiceps) is a benthic fish that favors the seabed. It can be found in a variety of marine habitats, including the subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans. This species is commonly found in depths ranging from 1.0 to 15.0 meters, with an affinity for the neritic zone, which extends from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge.
Taxonomy
The Tentacled Flathead, Indian Ocean Crocodilefish (Papilloculiceps longiceps) is scientifically classified within the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Platycephalidae. This classification places it within the large and diverse group of bony fishes, further categorized as perch-like fishes, and finally within the family of flatheads.
Feeding
Papilloculiceps longiceps is a carnivorous predator, employing its flattened body and large mouth to hunt a variety of prey. Its diet primarily consists of fish, invertebrates, shrimps, and worms, with a particular preference for smaller fish, mysis, and zoobenthos. As an opportunistic predator, it also scavenges on dead animals and feeds on zooplankton. The tentacles around its mouth play a crucial role in its feeding strategy, acting as sensory organs to detect prey and assisting in capturing smaller organisms.
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