Fin's Fish Guide
The Gulf sanddab (Citharichthys fragilis) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The Gulf sanddab is a left-eyed flatfish from the eastern Pacific, from southern California to the Gulf of California. The species grows to about 22 cm and has the typical, strongly asymmetric flatfish body with both eyes on one side and a brown, bottom-matching upper side. As a bottom-dweller it lies buried on sandy bottoms between about 18 and 347 metres depth and ambushes small bottom animals. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gulf sanddab?
The Gulf sanddab has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Asymmetrical left-eyed flatfish body; buried ambush predator
Where does the Gulf sanddab live?
The Gulf sanddab lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Gulf sanddab get?
The Gulf sanddab grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Gulf sanddab dangerous to humans?
No, the Gulf sanddab 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.
Is the Gulf sanddab edible?
The Gulf sanddab is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Citharichthys
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Gulf sanddab?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gulf sanddab is one of 12,519 species in the app.