Brown/tan body is flat and compressed, an oval-shaped body tapers towards tail (tongue-shaped). Both eyes on same side of body. Dorsal and anal fins continuously attached to tail fin, fins taper to a point at end of body. Blunt snout and a dark patch around gill area. The lateral line is absent. May have vertical stripes.
Average Maximum Size:
20.3 cm (8 in)
Adults Distinguishing Characteristics:
The Blackcheek Tonguefish has a more elongated body that comes to a point with a continuous tail fin than the Hogchoker which has a relatively circular body with a distinct tail that does not attach to the dorsal and anal fin.
Juveniles Distinguishing Characteristics:
NA
Range:
New York to Gulf of Mexico
Habitat:
Found in shallow coastal salt and brackish waters with sandy or muddy bottoms.
