The Thor's scaldfish (Arnoglossus thori) is a saltwater fish of the family Bothidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
Thor's scaldfish is a small, left-eyed flatfish of the family Bothidae reaching about 18 cm. Both eyes lie on the left side, which is sandy-brown and usually bears two conspicuous dark spots; the thin, translucent skin is characteristic of the scaldfishes. In the male a few front dorsal-fin rays are elongated. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf of the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, where it presses against the bottom and partly buries itself. On the bottom it hunts small crustaceans and worms. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance, though it regularly comes up as bycatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Thor's scaldfish?
The Thor's scaldfish has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Thor's scaldfish live?
The Thor's scaldfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Thor's scaldfish get?
The Thor's scaldfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Thor's scaldfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Thor's scaldfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Thor's scaldfish edible?
The Thor's scaldfish is not usually eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Arnoglossus
More from the family Bothidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.