Fin's Fish Guide
The Klein's sole (Synapturichthys kleinii) is a saltwater fish of the family Soleidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf and the slope.
Description
Klein's sole is a tongue-shaped flatfish of the family Soleidae reaching about 40 cm. Like the true sole it lies on its side with both eyes on the right side, which is brownish with a fine marbled or lace-like pattern; the pectoral fin often bears one or two dark spots. The rounded snout and the continuous fin fringe around the body are typical of the soles. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf and slope of the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, from tens to several hundred metres. On the bottom it eats worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. With its fine flesh it is a valued food fish, mainly as bycatch of the sole fishery.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Klein's sole?
The Klein's sole has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Tongue-shaped flatfish with both eyes on the right and a fine marbled or lace pattern; often with dark blotches on the pectoral fin.
Where does the Klein's sole live?
The Klein's sole lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf and the slope.
How big does the Klein's sole get?
The Klein's sole grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Klein's sole dangerous to humans?
No, the Klein's sole is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Klein's sole edible?
Yes, the Klein's sole is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Klein's sole and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Soleidae
Want the complete picture on the Klein's sole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Klein's sole is one of 12,519 species in the app.