Tentacled Flathead

Tentacled Flathead

Papilloculiceps longiceps

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Tentacled Flathead (Papilloculiceps longiceps) is a camouflaged, bottom-dwelling fish known for its elongated, flattened body and broad, crocodile-like head with distinctive eye papillae. It primarily inhabits sandy and rubble areas near coral reefs in the western Indian Ocean and the Red Sea, ambushing smaller fish and crustaceans. This species can reach a maximum length of 70 cm and is generally solitary.

Max Length 70 cm
Max Weight 2 kg
Lifespan N/A
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 40 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Nocturnal
Social Behavior Solitary

Destinations to spot Tentacled Flathead

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Tentacled Flathead has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Tentacled Flathead

Where can you see the Tentacled Flathead?

The Tentacled Flathead can be seen at 11 dive destinations in Egypt, Philippines, Maldives, and Indonesia. The best spots include Abu Dabbab (Egypt), Anilao (Philippines), Apo Reef (Philippines), Brothers Islands (Egypt), and Daedalus Reef (Egypt).

What is the best time to see the Tentacled Flathead?

The Tentacled Flathead is most often seen at Anilao from April to September.

Can you see the Tentacled Flathead all year round?

Yes. At Abu Dabbab, Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone Reef, and Hurghada, the Tentacled Flathead is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Tentacled Flathead in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Tentacled Flathead at Abu Dabbab, Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone Reef, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Where can you see the Tentacled Flathead in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Tentacled Flathead at Anilao and Apo Reef.

Where can you see the Tentacled Flathead in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Tentacled Flathead at South Ari Atoll and South Malé Atoll.

How big does the Tentacled Flathead get?

The Tentacled Flathead can reach up to 70 cm in length and 2 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Tentacled Flathead live in?

The Tentacled Flathead is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Tentacled Flathead live?

The Tentacled Flathead lives between 1 and 40 m deep.

What does the Tentacled Flathead eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Tentacled Flathead most active?

Active after dark, resting or hidden away during the day. Night dives are when it comes out.

Does the Tentacled Flathead live in groups?

No. The Tentacled Flathead is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

What is the conservation status of the Tentacled Flathead?

The Tentacled Flathead is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Tentacled Flathead. Spotted something that looks off?

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