[BlueTrend Mini Classroom] Can't Tell a Batfish from a Batfish? A Complete Guide to the 4 Species of Batfish Found in Taiwan!

There are four species of batfish commonly found in Taiwanese waters: Platax orbicularis, Platax pinnatus, Platax teira, and Platax boersii. Their friendly personalities and adorable swimming style never fail to draw excited squeals from divers! The batfish that reside permanently at Green Island's Steel Reef are especially beloved — visiting them is always on every diver's itinerary whenever they head to Green Island. However, the four species are often difficult to tell apart as adults, and even harder to distinguish as juveniles. This time, our Ocean Field Guide (海洋博物誌) team is here to share some quick tips on how to classify the four batfish species commonly seen in Taiwan!

Platax orbicularis Orbicular Batfish

Platax boersii Boers' Batfish

Platax teira Longfin Batfish / Teira Batfish

Platax pinnatus Dusky Batfish / Pinnate Batfish

Batfish Pop Quiz

Now that you've learned this super simple method for identifying the four batfish species, do you think you've got it down? Below we've prepared a few photos — put your newfound knowledge to the test and see if you can correctly identify each species!

After this introduction, we're sure that next time you spot a batfish on a dive, you'll be able to proudly tell your dive buddy exactly which species it is! If you'd like to learn more about identifying marine life and discover fun facts about their habits, the Ocean Field Guide is an absolute must-have — grab your copy here! And if you're interested in basic classification guides for other marine creatures, check out this article: Marine Citizen Science Database — Simple Species Classification Guide.