Flatheads
Crocodile fish (Papilloculiceps longiceps)
The Crocodile fish (Papilloculiceps longiceps) belongs to the family Platycephalidae (flatheads) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen alone. It reaches about 50 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Papilloculiceps longiceps |
|---|---|
| Family | Flatheads (Platycephalidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce coccodrillo |
| Common name (EN) | Crocodile fish |
| Maximum size | 50 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Crocodile fish belong to?
- The Crocodile fish (Papilloculiceps longiceps) belongs to the family Platycephalidae (flatheads).
- Is the Crocodile fish dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Crocodile fish endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Crocodile fish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 50 cm.