Fin's Fish Guide
The Bastard halibut (Paralichthys olivaceus) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 103 cm.
Description
The bastard halibut is a large flatfish from the northwest Pacific, ranging from Japan, Sakhalin and the Kurils to Korea and the South China Sea. The species grows to about 1 metre and has a strongly flattened, asymmetric body with both eyes on the left side and a large mouth with sharp teeth. The upper side is brown with light and dark spots, as camouflage on the seabed. As a bottom-dweller the fish lives on the continental shelf between 10 and 200 metres depth and hunts fish and crustaceans. It is a highly valued food and aquaculture fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bastard halibut?
The Bastard halibut has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Asymmetrical flatfish with both eyes on the left and sharp teeth; valued farmed fish
Where does the Bastard halibut live?
The Bastard halibut lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Pacific
How big does the Bastard halibut get?
The Bastard halibut grows to a maximum of about 103 cm.
Is the Bastard halibut dangerous to humans?
No, the Bastard halibut is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Bastard halibut edible?
Yes, the Bastard halibut is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Bastard halibut?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bastard halibut is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paralichthys
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Bastard halibut?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bastard halibut is one of 12,519 species in the app.