How are flatheads adapted for living on sandy and muddy seafloors?

Flatheads (family Platycephalidae) are well-adapted for life on sandy and muddy seafloors, primarily through their distinct physical morphology. Their bodies are significantly flattened from top to bottom, which serves as a specialized adaptation for a benthic existence.12

These fish typically bury themselves in the substrate of the ocean bottom, leaving only their eyes exposed to monitor their surroundings. This behavior allows them to remain concealed while waiting to ambush prey, which includes small fishes, crustaceans, mollusks, and marine worms. While they are not fast or powerful swimmers, they are capable of capturing active prey by using their large pectoral fins to perform a swift pounce.12

It is important to note that flatheads are distinct from "flatfish" (order Pleuronectiformes), such as flounder or halibut. Unlike flatheads, which are flattened from top to bottom, flatfish are laterally compressed and habitually rest on one side, with both eyes migrating to the upper side of the head as they mature.3