Fin's Fish Guide
The Abbott's sanddab (Citharichthys abbotti) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Endemic to the southwestern Gulf of Mexico (western Atlantic); soft bottoms.
Description
Abbott's sanddab is a left-eyed flatfish (Paralichthyidae) from shallow sandy and coastal water of the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a flat, oval body with both eyes on the left side; the top is sandy-brown mottled for camouflage, the underside white. As a bottom-bound ambush hunter it lies half-buried and seizes small fish, crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Abbott's sanddab?
The Abbott's sanddab has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Left-eyed sand flounder that buries itself in soft bottoms and pounces on prey.
Where does the Abbott's sanddab live?
The Abbott's sanddab lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to the southwestern Gulf of Mexico (western Atlantic); soft bottoms.
How big does the Abbott's sanddab get?
The Abbott's sanddab grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Abbott's sanddab dangerous to humans?
No, the Abbott's sanddab is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Abbott's sanddab edible?
The Abbott's sanddab is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Abbott's sanddab?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Citharichthys
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Abbott's sanddab?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Abbott's sanddab is one of 12,519 species in the app.