Sunagocia arenicola (Schultz, 1966)
Broadhead flathead
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Platycephalidae (Flatheads)
Max. size:  37 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 30 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Indo-Pacific: East Africa to the Marshall Islands and Fiji (Ref. 2334). Northwards to Taiwan and Ryukyu Islands, including Mariana, Marshall, and Caroline islands (Ref. 1602, 37816).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-13; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 11-13. Lips smooth, lacking papillae on edges. Least interorbital width going 3.5 times or less in greatest diameter of orbit. Base of lower opercular spine concealed by scales. Anterior 1-3, usually 2, lateral line scales bearing a small spine. Iris lappet bearing short branches with bifurcate tips. Description: Characterized by mottled tan color, finely flecked with dark brown; dorsal surface with six indistinct dark bars and scattered small pale blotches; no prominent makings on fins; 4-5 spines in suborbital ridge (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Taken over sand associated with rocks and coral reefs to about 30 m (Ref. 9790). Buries itself partially in the sand for camouflage. Feeds mainly on crabs and prawns, also on fishes. Also found in sandy fringe of coral reefs (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 04 March 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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