Fin's Fish Guide
The Slender flounder (Etropus ectenes) is a brackish-water fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The slender flounder is a small flatfish (Paralichthyidae) from shallow coastal water of the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a flattened, oval, pale-brown body with both eyes on the left side and a small mouth. As a bottom-dweller it lies buried on sand and mud bottoms and snaps at small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender flounder?
The Slender flounder has an irregular in shape body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Slender flounder live?
The Slender flounder lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru
How big does the Slender flounder get?
The Slender flounder grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Slender flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Slender 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 Slender flounder edible?
Yes, the Slender 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 Etropus
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Slender flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.