Batfish
Platax teira
Sighting evidence at Sanko Maru, Rabaul
Photo: Albertini maridom · CC BY-NC
Longfin batfish congregate in loose aggregations around the Sanko Maru's mast and crow's nest, drawn by the shelter of the superstructure and the abundance of plankton drifting through the harbour. Juveniles mimic dead leaves in shallower rubble zones before maturing into the striking disc-shaped adults that greet divers at mid-water. They are remarkably curious and will often approach within arm's reach, making close observation effortless.
Evidence at this site
No confirmed records on file at this site
Batfish is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.