---
title: Spadefishes (Ephippidae)
scientific_name: Ephippidae
common_name: Spadefishes
rank: Family
published: 2024-11-19T18:41:51.573Z
updated: 2026-08-03T21:18:38.782Z
tags: Spadefishes, Ephippidae, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/spadefishes
---

# Spadefishes (*Ephippidae*)

## Quick facts

- **Rank:** Family
- **Scientific name:** Ephippidae
- **Body shape:** Disc - Round and flat as a plate, seen from the side - butterflyfishes, angelfishes.
- **Species listed here:** 3

## How to recognise this group

- disc-shaped body, much deeper than long
- large eyes set high on head
- silvery to grey body colour
- often forming schools

Spadefishes, commonly known as batfishes, are deep-bodied, laterally compressed marine fish. Their bodies are typically silvery or grayish, often marked with vertical dark bars or spots that may fade with age. All species feature large eyes positioned high on their heads. Adults typically measure between 40 and 60 cm (16-24 in) in length, though some species can grow up to 70 cm (28 in).

They inhabit a range of reef environments, from sheltered lagoons and protected bays to outer reef slopes, typically occurring at depths from 3 to 40 metres (10-130 ft). Adults commonly form large schools, feeding on a varied diet that includes zooplankton, algae, small crustaceans, and other benthic invertebrates. Juveniles of some species are often solitary, mimicking dead leaves by floating on their sides as a defence. Spadefishes are often curious and may approach divers, but they can also be skittish and retreat quickly if startled. Some species can temporarily intensify or change their body colours, particularly during courtship or when excited.


## Species (3)

- [African Spadefish (Tripterodon orbis)](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/spadefishes/african-spadefish)
- [Longfin Spadefish (Platax teira)](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/spadefishes/longfin-spadefish)
- [Orbicular Batfish (Platax orbicularis)](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/spadefishes/orbicular-batfish)

---

*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/spadefishes)*
*Updated: August 3, 2026*