Fin's Fish Guide
The Channel flounder (Syacium micrurum) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Atlantic Ocean, on both sides, on soft bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The channel flounder is a left-eyed flatfish of the family Paralichthyidae occurring in the Atlantic Ocean. The species has an oval, brown mottled body with both eyes on the left side and a white underside, and reaches about 40 cm. It lives half-buried on soft bottoms of the continental shelf. The diet consists of worms and crustaceans. The species shows sexual dimorphism: males have, among other things, a broader head and longer fin rays. The channel flounder is of modest commercial importance and is rarely eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Channel flounder?
The Channel flounder has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Left-sided flatfish with sexual dimorphism; lies buried on soft bottoms.
Where does the Channel flounder live?
The Channel flounder lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Atlantic Ocean, on both sides, on soft bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Channel flounder get?
The Channel flounder grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Channel flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Channel flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Channel flounder edible?
The Channel flounder is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Syacium
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Channel flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Channel flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.