Fin's Fish Guide
The Starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Pleuronectidae that grows up to 91 cm.
North Pacific, on sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water, estuaries and river mouths; goes far into fresh water.
Description
The starry flounder is a large flatfish of the family Pleuronectidae reaching about 91 cm. Characteristic are the striking black-and-white or black-and-orange banded dorsal, caudal and anal fins and the rough, star-shaped bony plates scattered over the brown upper side, which give the species its name. The eyes usually lie on the left side, but in this species both left- and right-eyed individuals occur. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of coastal water, estuaries and river mouths in the northern Pacific and ranges far into fresh water. On the bottom it searches for worms, molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. With its tasty flesh it is a valued sport and market fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Starry flounder?
The Starry flounder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Large flatfish with black-and-white banded dorsal, caudal and anal fins and rough, star-shaped scale plates on the upperside.
Where does the Starry flounder live?
The Starry flounder lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Pacific, on sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water, estuaries and river mouths; goes far into fresh water.
How big does the Starry flounder get?
The Starry flounder grows to a maximum of about 91 cm. On average the species is around 58 cm.
Is the Starry flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Starry flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Starry flounder edible?
Yes, the Starry flounder is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Starry flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Starry flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Platichthys
More from the family Pleuronectidae
Want the complete picture on the Starry flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Starry flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.