Fin's Fish Guide
The Brill (Scophthalmus rhombus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scophthalmidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms.
Description
The brill is a large, left-eyed flatfish of the family Scophthalmidae reaching about 75 cm. Like the closely related turbot it lies on its right side, so both eyes are on the left; the brill, however, is rounder and more slender, lacks the bony tubercles of the turbot and has smooth scales and fringed front dorsal-fin rays. The brownish mottled upper side adapts to the bottom for camouflage. The species lives on sand and gravel bottoms of the north-eastern Atlantic, the North Sea and the Mediterranean. As an ambush hunter it lies buried and seizes small fish, shrimps and crustaceans. The brill has fine, prized flesh and is an important sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brill?
The Brill has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Left-eyed flatfish that resembles the turbot, but is rounder in shape, has smooth scales (no bony tubercles) and fringed front dorsal fin rays.
Where does the Brill live?
The Brill lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms.
How big does the Brill get?
The Brill grows to a maximum of about 75 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Brill dangerous to humans?
No, the Brill is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Brill edible?
Yes, the Brill is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Brill and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scophthalmus
More from the family Scophthalmidae
Want the complete picture on the Brill?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brill is one of 12,519 species in the app.