Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic spotted flounder (Citharus linguatula) is a saltwater fish of the family Citharidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Eastern Atlantic off northwestern Africa southwards and the Mediterranean Sea.
Description
The spotted flounder is a small, left-eyed flatfish of the family Citharidae reaching about 40 cm. Unlike many flatfishes it has a relatively large mouth and large eyes. The eyed side is light brown with dark spots, while the blind side is white. The spotted flounder lives on soft sand and mud bottoms of the eastern Atlantic off north-west Africa and in the Mediterranean, usually to about 200 m. It feeds on small fishes and crustaceans. The species has some commercial value but is landed only in modest quantities, mostly as bycatch in bottom fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic spotted flounder?
The Atlantic spotted flounder has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Left-eyed flatfish with a fairly large mouth and large eyes; eyed side light brown with dark blotches.
Where does the Atlantic spotted flounder live?
The Atlantic spotted flounder lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic off northwestern Africa southwards and the Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the Atlantic spotted flounder get?
The Atlantic spotted flounder grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Atlantic spotted flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic spotted flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic spotted flounder edible?
The Atlantic spotted flounder is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Citharidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic spotted flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic spotted flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.