dikkops

Dikkops are a group of fish belonging to the family Psammodromidae. The name "dikkop" is Afrikaans for "thick head," referring to their prominent, bulbous heads. These fish are primarily found in the coastal waters of southern Africa, inhabiting sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow seas and estuaries. They are characterized by their flattened bodies, large mouths, and distinctive eyes that are positioned on top of their heads. This adaptation allows them to lie partially buried in the substrate while keeping their eyes above the surface to watch for predators and prey.

Dikkops are benthic predators, meaning they live and hunt on the seabed. Their diet consists mainly of small crustaceans, mollusks, and other small fish. They are ambush predators, relying on their camouflage to blend in with their surroundings before lunging at unsuspecting prey. Their coloration typically matches the substrate they inhabit, ranging from sandy browns and grays to darker mottled patterns. Dikkops are generally solitary and territorial, often defending their chosen patch of seabed. They are not typically targeted by commercial fisheries, though they may be caught by recreational anglers. There are several species within the Psammodromidae family, with variations in size and specific habitat preferences.