Fin's Fish Guide
The Bass flathead (Platycephalus bassensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Platycephalidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia; sandy, shell-grit and muddy bottoms.
Description
The sand flathead is a flathead (Platycephalidae) from the temperate coastal waters of southern Australia. The species has a strongly flattened, broad head and a backward-tapering body, adapted to life half-buried on the bottom. It inhabits coastal waters from shallow bays and inlets to about 100 m deep, over sand, shell grit and mud bottoms. It is usually solitary but sometimes forms loose groups. As an ambush hunter it springs on small fishes and crustaceans. It is a sought-after sport and food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bass flathead?
The Bass flathead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Strongly flattened, broad head; half-buried ambush predator; sought-after sport and food fish.
Where does the Bass flathead live?
The Bass flathead lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia; sandy, shell-grit and muddy bottoms.
How big does the Bass flathead get?
The Bass flathead grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Bass flathead dangerous to humans?
The Bass flathead is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines and the spines on the head are venomous and can give a painful prick. Hold the wound in water as hot as you can tolerate (about 45 °C) for 30 to 90 minutes, remove any spine fragments and see a doctor if pain or swelling is severe.
Is the Bass flathead edible?
Yes, the Bass flathead is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Bass flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bass flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Platycephalus
More from the family Platycephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Bass flathead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bass flathead is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone