lautnusantara.com The flathead fish is a general term for a group of fish belonging to the order Pleuronectiformes. Their main characteristic is their flat and asymmetrical body shape, which is the result of an extraordinary evolutionary adaptation to a lifestyle on the seabed. In Indonesia, this fish is often also called the tongue fish because of its shape which resembles a tongue, or the fish left by the Prophet which is associated with the story of the Prophet Moses.

Uniquely, when they first hatch, the flathead fish larvae have a symmetrical body shape, like fish in general, with one eye on each side of the head. However, over time, a dramatic transformation occurs. One of its eyes gradually migrates across the top of the head, until it is finally located on the same side as the other eye. At the same time, its body begins to flatten laterally, and one side of its body loses pigment, becoming lighter, while the other side remains pigmented and functions as a back

A. Behavior and Food

The flathead fish is an opportunistic predator. They generally hide on the seabed, partially buried in sediment, waiting for passing prey. Their diet varies by species and size, but generally includes:

• Small fish
• Crustaceans (shrimp, crabs)
• Other bottom invertebrates

Their camouflage abilities are essential for this “wait and strike” hunting strategy.

B. Benefits and Economic Value

Squadfish have significant economic value in many parts of the world, including Indonesia. Their white, soft, and low-fat meat is highly sought after and often considered a delicacy.

The health benefits of consuming squadfish include:

• High Source of Protein: Important for the growth and repair of body cells.
• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Good for heart and brain health, and reduces inflammation.
• Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin B12, vitamin D, selenium, niacin, and magnesium which play an important role in various body functions, including as antioxidants.

C. Master of Camouflage on the Seabed

So why is this radical transformation important? The answer lies in the flathead fish's lifestyle. They are bottom dwellers (benthic) that spend most of their lives hidden on or slightly submerged in sediment. Their flattened body shape allows them to:

• Perfect camouflage: Lying flat on the seabed, their flattened, color-matched bodies make them nearly invisible to predators and prey. They can blend in with sand, mud, or rocks, waiting for an opportunity to attack passing prey or escape threats.
• Efficient hiding: Their flattened bodies allow them to easily burrow beneath thin layers of sediment, further enhancing their camouflage. They can quickly burrow into the sand with undulating body movements.
• Adaptive Movement: Despite their sluggish appearance, flatfish can move quickly across the seabed with undulating fin movements, allowing them to chase prey or escape danger.

D. More Than Just Camouflage

In addition to camouflage, this flattened shape also provides other advantages:

• Optimal Vision: With both eyes on one side, flatfish have a wide upward field of vision, allowing them to detect prey or predators moving above them.
• Efficient Hunting: Flatheads are opportunistic predators that prey on small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates that live on the seabed. Their flattened body shape allows them to wait in ambush and launch quick attacks from a hidden position.

Overall, the flattened shape of flatheads is a perfect example of natural selection at work. This adaptation has allowed them to thrive and survive successfully in the competitive seabed environment, making them one of the evolutionary wonders of the underwater world.

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