Taxonomy of Finfish (1+2)

3.3.9.5.2 Platacidae (Batfishes)

• Deep body, rhomboid and strongly compressed
• A single unnotched dorsal fin decreasing in size with age; spinous part not well differentiated, with 3 to 9 spines increasing in size posteriorly and nearly concealed by the scaly covering of the fin
• Short rounded, pectoral fins, pelvic fin, greatly produced

Eg. Platax orbicularis

 

Similar Families

Ephippidae - Dorsal fin with a deep notch; dorsal fin spines produced.

Drepanidae - Long and falcate pectoral fin; protrusible mouth; dorsal fin spines shorter and stouter.

Scatophagidae - 4 anal spines; snout profile concave.