Megalactis
Megalactis is a genus of marine ray-finned fishes belonging to the family Platycephalidae, commonly known as flatheads. This genus comprises eight recognized species, distributed across the Indo-Pacific region. These fish are characterized by their flattened bodies, large heads, and wide mouths.
Common Names
Members of the genus Megalactis are commonly referred to as "flatheads" or "flat-headed gobies." Some specific species have additional common names, such as the "giant flathead" (Megalactis caledonicus) and the "spotted flathead" (Megalactis stellatus).
Characteristics
Megalactis species exhibit several distinct characteristics, including:
- Flattened body: Their bodies are compressed laterally, giving them a flattened appearance.
- Large head: They possess large, broad heads, which are wider than their bodies.
- Wide mouth: Their mouths are wide and equipped with numerous small, sharp teeth.
- Depressed eyes: Their eyes are located on the dorsal side of their heads and are often directed upwards.
- Large pectoral fins: They have large pectoral fins that extend beyond their bodies.
- Varied color patterns: Megalactis species display a range of color patterns, from brown and gray to reddish and yellowish, often with spots or stripes.
Environment
Megalactis species inhabit a variety of marine environments, primarily in the Indo-Pacific region. They are typically found in shallow, coastal waters, including:
- Coral reefs: Some species are commonly associated with coral reefs, where they hide among the coral formations.
- Seagrass beds: Others prefer seagrass beds, where they ambush their prey.
- Sandy bottoms: They are also found on sandy bottoms, often burrowing into the sediment.
These fish are generally solitary and ambush predators, relying on camouflage to catch their prey. They feed on a variety of smaller fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.