Fin's Fish Guide
The Greenback flounder (Rhombosolea tapirina) is a brackish-water fish of the family Pleuronectidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The greenback flounder is a right-eyed flatfish of the family Pleuronectidae from the temperate coastal waters of southern Australia and New Zealand. The species reaches about 45 cm; both eyes lie on the right side and the eyed side is greenish to brown, providing camouflage on the bottom. It is common on silty sand bottoms of estuaries and inshore waters to about 100 m deep; juveniles occasionally enter rivers. The diet consists of small bottom invertebrates such as worms, crustaceans and molluscs. The species is regularly eaten and of local commercial importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Greenback flounder?
The Greenback flounder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Right-sided flatfish with a greenish eyed side; juveniles sometimes move up rivers.
Where does the Greenback flounder live?
The Greenback flounder lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia and New Zealand.
How big does the Greenback flounder get?
The Greenback flounder grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Greenback flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Greenback flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Greenback flounder edible?
Yes, the Greenback flounder is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Greenback flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Greenback flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.