Cynoglossus

Cynoglossus is a genus of flounders in the family Soleidae, commonly known as tonguefishes or sobete. These fish are native to tropical and subtropical marine waters around the world, with species found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. The genus Cynoglossus contains over 30 species, with a wide range of morphological and behavioral characteristics.

Physical characteristics of Cynoglossus species include a flattened body shape, typically with a maximum length of 30 centimeters to 1 meter, although some species may reach lengths of up to 1.5 meters. The species have a distinctive tongue-like organ, which is often longer than the sensory barbel. The mouth is anterior, with the tongue located between the upper and lower jaws.

Cynoglossus species inhabit a variety of habitats, including sandy, muddy, or pebbly areas, as well as coral reefs. They are often found in intertidal and subtidal zones, where they feed on small invertebrates, such as bivalves, crustaceans, and worms. In the wild, Cynoglossus are often preyed upon by larger fish and marine mammals. The species are also valued as a food source for humans, with some being harvested for commercial purposes.

In terms of taxonomy, Cynoglossus was first described by Samuel Adams Garman, an American ichthyologist, in 1875. Since then, numerous species have been identified, although some classifications are still debated among taxonomists. Further research is needed to confirm the relationships between the different species and to determine their exact distribution and diversity.