Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotfin flounder (Cyclopsetta fimbriata) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 33 cm.
Western Atlantic; soft sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The spotfin flounder is a flatfish of the family Paralichthyidae from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 33 cm and has an oval, strongly flattened body with both eyes on the left side and a broad mouth with sharp teeth. It lives on soft sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf, where it hides half-buried. As a bottom ambush predator it seizes passing small fishes and crustaceans. The spotfin flounder is marketed fresh. Owing to its modest size and abundance it is a common bycatch of the coastal fishery. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotfin flounder?
The Spotfin flounder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Both eyes on the left side and a broad mouth with sharp teeth; bottom ambush predator.
Where does the Spotfin flounder live?
The Spotfin flounder lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic; soft sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Spotfin flounder get?
The Spotfin flounder grows to a maximum of about 33 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Spotfin flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotfin flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotfin flounder edible?
The Spotfin flounder is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cyclopsetta
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotfin flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotfin flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.