Fin's Fish Guide
The Black flounder (Rhombosolea retiaria) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Pleuronectidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Endemic to New Zealand; river mouths, estuaries and lower reaches of rivers.
Description
The black flounder is a flatfish of the righteye flounder family (Pleuronectidae), endemic to New Zealand. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a rhomboid, flattened body with both eyes on the right side and a dark, often net-patterned eyed side. Unlike many flatfishes it prefers fresh and brackish water: it lives in river mouths, estuaries and the lower reaches of rivers, in shallows usually less than 50 metres; juveniles gather in fresh water. As a bottom hunter it feeds on worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. Owing to limited data the species is assessed as Data Deficient (DD). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black flounder?
The Black flounder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Endemic New Zealand flatfish that prefers fresh and brackish water; juveniles in fresh water.
Where does the Black flounder live?
The Black flounder lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to New Zealand; river mouths, estuaries and lower reaches of rivers.
How big does the Black flounder get?
The Black flounder grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Black flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Black flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black flounder edible?
Yes, the Black flounder is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhombosolea
More from the family Pleuronectidae
Want the complete picture on the Black flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.