tonguefish

Tonguefish are a group of flatfish belonging to the family Cynoglossidae. These fish are characterized by their elongated, asymmetrical bodies, with both eyes migrating to one side, typically the left. Their coloration usually provides camouflage against the seabed, ranging from mottled browns and grays to more uniform sandy hues. They are demersal fish, meaning they live and feed on the bottom of the ocean.

The name "tonguefish" likely derives from their shape, which resembles a tongue, and their habit of lying flat on the ocean floor. They are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, inhabiting sandy or muddy substrates in coastal areas, estuaries, and sometimes deeper waters. Their diet consists primarily of small invertebrates such as worms, crustaceans, and mollusks, which they forage for using their sensitive barbels and their ability to lie in wait.

Tonguefish are commercially fished in some regions, though they are often considered a minor catch. They are not typically marketed as a premium fish but can be found in local markets. Several species exist within the Cynoglossidae family, varying in size and distribution, but all share the distinctive flatfish characteristics.