Fin's Fish Guide
The Cape sole (Heteromycteris capensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Soleidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Cape sole is a sole-like flatfish (Soleidae) from coastal and brackish water of southern Africa. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an oval, strongly flattened, brown-marbled body with both eyes on the right side. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms of estuaries and shallow coastal water and searches for small worms, crustaceans and molluscs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cape sole?
The Cape sole has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Cape sole live?
The Cape sole lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Namibia, South Africa
How big does the Cape sole get?
The Cape sole grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Cape sole dangerous to humans?
No, the Cape sole 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Heteromycteris
More from the family Soleidae
Want the complete picture on the Cape sole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cape sole is one of 12,519 species in the app.