The Whiskered sole (Monochirus hispidus) is a saltwater fish of the family Soleidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The whiskered sole is a small, right-eyed sole of the family Soleidae reaching about 22 cm. The eyed side is greyish to reddish-brown and feels rough owing to the structure of its scales; the caudal fin is clearly separate from the dorsal and anal fins. The species lives on soft sand and mud bottoms of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, usually between 10 and 100 m. It feeds on small bottom animals. The whiskered sole is taken occasionally as bycatch in trawl fisheries and has some commercial importance within its range, though its small size makes it less sought-after than the true sole.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whiskered sole?
The Whiskered sole has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Whiskered sole live?
The Whiskered sole lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Whiskered sole get?
The Whiskered sole grows to a maximum of about 22 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Whiskered sole dangerous to humans?
No, the Whiskered sole is harmless to humans.
Is the Whiskered sole edible?
The Whiskered sole is rarely eaten.
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More from the family Soleidae
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