Species FishDusky Batfish

Dusky Batfish

Platax pinnatus

RareFish
Illustration of Dusky Batfish (Platax pinnatus)

The Dusky Batfish has a flattened body resembling a bat, with long fins that allow it to 'walk' along the sea floor. This unique adaptation helps it navigate its benthic habitat.

Habitat
Typically found in sandy or muddy bottoms near reefs.
Diet
Feeds on benthic invertebrates and small fish.
How common
Rare

Recent Dusky Batfish sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

Spot a Dusky Batfish? Identify it instantly.

Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.

Get Huck

Get an alert when a Dusky Batfish is spotted

Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.

Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.

Love fish? Get Huck field notes

Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.

By subscribing you agree to receive Huck emails. No spam, unsubscribe anytime. See our Privacy Policy.

More fish

Dusky Butterflyfish
Dusky Butterflyfish
Chaetodon flavirostris
Dusky Damselfish
Dusky Damselfish
Stegastes adustus
Dusky Flathead
Dusky Flathead
Platycephalus fuscus
Dusky Gregory
Dusky Gregory
Stegastes nigricans
Dusky Grouper
Dusky Grouper
Epinephelus marginatus
Dusky Morwong
Dusky Morwong
Dactylophora nigricans
Dusky Rabbitfish
Dusky Rabbitfish
Siganus fuscescens
Dusky Smooth-hound
Dusky Smooth-hound
Mustelus canis