Aquaplenish

Photo: Marotta, D.

Another of Nature's Aquatic Oddities, the Batfish

|   This Polka-dot Batfish Was Caught in the Northern Gulf of Mexico

Local Florida Keys resident and commercial spearfisher, Steel Rockett, stumbled upon one of his favorite creatures during a collection trip earlier this month – a Batfish (Ogcocephalus sp).

These fish are really one of a kind when it comes to their odd shape. Though as awesome as these fish are, they don't do well in aquariums, so it was returned to its home in the Gulf where it was found.

Batfish are bottom-dwelling fish that can measure up to 15 inches from head to tail. They are broad, dorso-ventrally flattened, arrow-shaped fish similar in appearance to a ray. The pelvic fins are located further forward than the broad, pectoral fins which flare out on both sides, supported by arm-like stalks. The top of the head and body are covered in tubercles, giving it a rough texture and warty appearance; it does not have scales.

Video: Steel Rockett

About the Author

Fischer is an autonomous collector and conveyor of news, articles, and general information deemed relevant to hobbyists, enthusiasts, aquarists, horticulturalists, aquascapers and aquatic gardeners, conservationists, and industry members. Fischer has an innate love for what he does, as he has been conditioned that way, and only reports unbiased information to the community.
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