Reeflings

Batfish

6 species

Batfish are a unique and intriguing addition to larger marine aquariums. They belong to the family Ephippidae and are known for their unusual, laterally compressed bodies and peaceful nature. Batfish species, such as the Pinnatus Batfish (Platax pinnatus), are not reef-safe as they tend to nibble on corals and invertebrates. They require spacious tanks with plenty of swimming room and a varied diet of meaty foods and marine algae. Batfish can grow quite large, making them suitable only for hobbyists with the capacity to house them in appropriately sized systems. They are also sensitive to water quality, so regular maintenance and monitoring are essential for their well-being.

  1. The tentacled flathead (Papilloculiceps longiceps), also known as the Indian Ocean crocodilefish
    Common name: Tentacled flathead
    Scientific name: Papilloculiceps longiceps
  2. Head shot portait of bat fish
    Common name: Humpback batfish
    Scientific name: Platax batavianus
  3. An adult golden spadefish (Platax boersii), off Sauwaderek Village Reef, Raja Ampat
    Common name: Golden spadefish
    Scientific name: Platax boersii
  4. Large school of Orbicular spadefish (Platax orbicularis) swimming together in the open blue water
    Common name: Orbicular batfish
    Scientific name: Platax orbicularis
  5. Pinnate Batfish - Platax pinnatus (juvenile). Underwater world of Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia.
    Common name: Pinnate batfish
    Scientific name: Platax pinnatus
  6. Longfin batfish on a coral reef
    Common name: Teira batfish
    Scientific name: Platax teira