Fin's Fish Guide
The Eyed sole (Microchirus ocellatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Soleidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from Portugal to West Africa and the Mediterranean Sea.
Description
The foureyed sole is a small flatfish of the family Soleidae reaching about 21 cm. Like other soles the body is oval, right-eyed and brown on the eyed side; it is distinguished by a few conspicuous dark eyespots (ocelli) with a pale rim. The blind underside is lighter. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, usually between 30 and 300 metres, and buries itself by day. At night it searches by touch for small bottom invertebrates such as worms and crustaceans. Because of its small size the species has little commercial value and is landed only as bycatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eyed sole?
The Eyed sole has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small sole with a few striking dark eyespots (ocelli) with a pale edge on the eyed side.
Where does the Eyed sole live?
The Eyed sole lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from Portugal to West Africa and the Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the Eyed sole get?
The Eyed sole grows to a maximum of about 21 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Eyed sole dangerous to humans?
No, the Eyed sole is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Eyed sole edible?
The Eyed sole is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Eyed sole 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 Microchirus
More from the family Soleidae
Want the complete picture on the Eyed sole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eyed sole is one of 12,519 species in the app.