Fin's Fish Guide
The Summer flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 94 cm.
Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of the USA, over sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The summer flounder is a large, left-eyed flatfish of the family Paralichthyidae reaching about 94 cm. Unlike most 'resting' flatfishes it is an active predator: it has both eyes on the left side, a large mouth full of sharp teeth and a brown pattern with numerous eyespots that adapts to the bottom. The species lives over sand and mud bottoms of coastal water and estuaries along the east coast of the USA and tolerates brackish water. From a shallow burial it shoots up as an ambush predator at fish, shrimps, crabs and squid. In summer it stays in shallow coastal water, in winter it moves to deeper water offshore to spawn. With its white flesh it is one of the most popular sport and commercial flatfishes of the region.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Summer flounder?
The Summer flounder has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Large, left-eyed flounder with a large mouth full of sharp teeth and a pattern of eyespots; an active, predatory flatfish.
Where does the Summer flounder live?
The Summer flounder lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of the USA, over sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Summer flounder get?
The Summer flounder grows to a maximum of about 94 cm.
Is the Summer flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Summer flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Summer flounder edible?
Yes, the Summer flounder is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paralichthys
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Summer flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Summer flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.