Fin's Fish Guide
The Gulf flounder (Paralichthys albigutta) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 71 cm.
Description
The Gulf flounder is a left-eyed flatfish of the family Paralichthyidae from the western Atlantic, from the southeastern United States to the Gulf of Mexico. Both eyes lie on the left side; the upper side is brown with three conspicuous eyespots, while the underside is white. The species reaches about 71 cm and inhabits bays, lagoons and shallow coastal waters with hard and sandy bottoms. It lies half-buried on the bottom and ambushes fishes and crustaceans. The Gulf flounder is caught with trawls and by gigging and is of modest commercial importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gulf flounder?
The Gulf flounder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Left-sided flatfish with three eyespots; lies buried and attacks prey from ambush.
Where does the Gulf flounder live?
The Gulf flounder lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic, from North Carolina to the Gulf of Mexico.
How big does the Gulf flounder get?
The Gulf flounder grows to a maximum of about 71 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Gulf flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Gulf flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Gulf flounder edible?
The Gulf flounder is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paralichthys
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Gulf flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gulf flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.