Arnoglossus
Arnoglossus is a genus of flatfishes in the family Bothidae, commonly known as “tonguefishes”. These fish are characterized by their flattened bodies, with both eyes located on the right side of their head. They are found in both shallow and deep waters, inhabiting a variety of marine environments. The genus consists of approximately 20 species, with a wide distribution in tropical and subtropical waters around the world.
Common Names
Depending on the species, Arnoglossus fish are commonly known as:
- Tonguefish
- Sand Flounder
- Lefteye Flounder
Characteristics
Arnoglossus species exhibit a number of distinctive characteristics, including:
- Flattened body: Like other flatfish, Arnoglossus species possess a flattened body shape that allows them to lie concealed on the seabed.
- Eyes on right side: Both eyes are located on the right side of the head, a characteristic shared by all members of the Bothidae family.
- Small mouth: The mouth is small and located on the ventral (bottom) side of the head.
- Coloration: Arnoglossus species typically exhibit a variety of cryptic colorations, often blending in with their surroundings.
- Scales: The scales are small and embedded in the skin, giving the fish a smooth texture.
Environments
Arnoglossus fish are found in a range of marine environments, including:
- Shallow coastal waters: Many species inhabit shallow sandy or muddy bottoms near the coastline.
- Continental shelves: Others are found on the continental shelves, at depths up to several hundred meters.
- Coral reefs: Some species are associated with coral reefs and seagrass beds.