Fin's Fish Guide
The New Zealand flounder (Rhombosolea leporina) is a saltwater fish of the family Pleuronectidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Description
The yellowbelly flounder is a flatfish (right-eyed flounder) from the waters around New Zealand. The species grows to about 32 cm and has a rhomboid, strongly flattened body with both eyes on the right side, a brown upper side and a yellow belly. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried in sand and mud bottoms of shallow coastal and estuarine water and hunts small worms, crustaceans and molluscs. It is a valued food fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the New Zealand flounder?
The New Zealand flounder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Diamond-shaped flattened body with eyes on the right side; burrowing flounder
Where does the New Zealand flounder live?
The New Zealand flounder lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. New Zealand
How big does the New Zealand flounder get?
The New Zealand flounder grows to a maximum of about 32 cm.
Is the New Zealand flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the New Zealand flounder 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 New Zealand flounder edible?
Yes, the New Zealand 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 New Zealand flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the New Zealand flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.