Sunagocia
Sunagocia is a genus of ray-finned fish in the family Platycephalidae, commonly known as flatheads. These fish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, and are characterized by their flattened bodies, large heads, and protruding eyes. They are typically found on sandy or muddy bottoms, where they camouflage themselves to ambush prey.
Common Names
Species within the genus Sunagocia are commonly called "flatheads" or "sandperch." The specific names of individual species may vary based on location and local dialects.
Characteristics
Fish belonging to the genus Sunagocia possess the following characteristics:
- Flattened body: Their bodies are compressed laterally, allowing them to lie flat on the seabed.
- Large head: Their heads are disproportionately large compared to their bodies.
- Protruding eyes: Their eyes are positioned on top of their heads, providing a wide field of vision.
- Barbels: They have sensory barbels around their mouths, aiding in locating prey.
- Camouflage: They are often mottled with colors and patterns that help them blend in with their surroundings.
Environments
Sunagocia species are typically found in coastal marine environments, particularly in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms. They are often found near coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and estuaries. These fish are generally demersal, meaning they live near the bottom of the ocean floor.
References
For more detailed information about the genus Sunagocia, refer to these reliable sources: