Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortnose tongue sole (Cynoglossus abbreviatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cynoglossidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The shortnose tonguesole is a tonguefish from the northwest Pacific, along China, Korea and Japan. The species grows to about 38 cm and has the elongate, tongue-shaped, strongly asymmetric flatfish body with both eyes on the left side and a continuous fin fringe. As a bottom-dweller it lies buried on sandy and muddy bottoms of the coastal shelf and feeds on small bottom animals. It is a local food fish and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortnose tongue sole?
The Shortnose tongue sole has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Tongue-shaped asymmetrical flatfish body with a continuous fin fringe
Where does the Shortnose tongue sole live?
The Shortnose tongue sole lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Pacific
How big does the Shortnose tongue sole get?
The Shortnose tongue sole grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Shortnose tongue sole dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortnose tongue sole 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 Shortnose tongue sole edible?
Yes, the Shortnose tongue sole is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cynoglossus
More from the family Cynoglossidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortnose tongue sole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortnose tongue sole is one of 12,519 species in the app.