Other names: Drift flathead, Eastern blue-spot flathead, Longnose flathead, Red flathead, Sand flathead
The blue-spotted flathead, Platycephalus caeruleopunctatus, is a marine fish found in the coastal waters of Australia and Lord Howe Island. It inhabits sandy and muddy bottoms on the continental shelf. Recognized by its flat body and blue spots, it is a target for fisheries and valued for its taste.
Other names
Drift flathead, Eastern blue-spot flathead, Longnose flathead, Red flathead, Sand flathead
Length
~35" (max 68)
Weight
~1" (max 2)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
15-23° F
Depth
40-100 ft
Blood worms
Herring
Mullet
PrawnsAlways open
8
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300 mm
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Found in sandy and muddy bottoms of continental shelves
Inhabits inshore and estuarine areas
Feeds on small fish and invertebrates
Prefers temperate waters
Spawning occurs in shallow, vegetated waters
Eggs are laid on sandy or muddy substrates
Juveniles grow in estuarine areas before moving to deeper waters
Adults exhibit site fidelity, returning to the same spawning and feeding areas annually
