Reef Batfish (Ephippidae)

These batfish are often found near reefs and have disc-shaped bodies.

1. Orbicular Batfish (Platax orbicularis) – A large, round-bodied species common in warm coastal waters.
2. Teira Batfish (Platax teira) – Recognized by its elongated fins and silver body.
3. Round Batfish (Platax boersii) – A small, round batfish commonly found in shallow lagoons.
4. Zebra Batfish (Platax batavianus) – Features dark bands across its body.
5. Shortfin Batfish (Platax pinnatus) – Striking black and orange coloration in juveniles.

Deep-sea Batfish (Ogcocephalidae)

These batfish live at the bottom of the ocean and use their fins to “walk” on the seafloor.

1. Red-lipped Batfish (Ogcocephalus darwini) – Found near the Galápagos Islands, famous for its bright red lips.
2. Longnose Batfish (Ogcocephalus corniger) – Has an elongated snout used for foraging.
3. Roughback Batfish (Ogcocephalus parvus) – Small with a rough, textured body.

Habitat & Distribution

Reef Batfish

• Found in warm, tropical waters, mainly near coral reefs, lagoons, and mangroves.
• Common locations: Indo-Pacific, Red Sea, Australia, Caribbean.

Deep-sea Batfish

• Live at depths of 50–1,000 meters (164–3,280 ft) on the ocean floor.
• Found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, often near deep-sea ridges.

Diet

Reef Batfish

• Omnivorous, feeding on plankton, small fish, algae, jellyfish, and crustaceans.
• Often form schools, especially in juvenile stages.

Deep-sea Batfish

• Carnivorous, using a lure (illicium) on their snout to attract prey.
• Feed on crustaceans, worms, mollusks, and small fish.

Reproduction & Lifespan

• Egg-laying species, with planktonic larvae that drift before settling.
• Lifespan: Reef batfish live 5–10 years, while deep-sea batfish have shorter, less-documented lifespans.

Identification & Behavior

Reef Batfish

• Disc-shaped, laterally compressed bodies.
• Juveniles often mimic toxic flatworms for protection.
• Change shape as they mature, with extended fins as juveniles.

Deep-sea Batfish

• Flat, triangular bodies with modified pectoral fins for “walking” on the seafloor.
• Use a lure to attract prey, similar to anglerfish.
• Poor swimmers, relying on their fins for movement.