Fin's Fish Guide
The Thickback sole (Microchirus variegatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Soleidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf and slope.
Description
The thickback sole is a sole-like flatfish of the family Soleidae reaching about 35 cm. Like the true sole it lies on its side with both eyes on the right side; characteristic is a row of broad, dark cross-bands over the brown upper side, often alternating with paler bands. The rounded snout and the continuous fin fringe around the body are typical of the soles. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf and slope of the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, from tens to several hundred metres. On the bottom it eats bristle worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. Because of its modest size it has limited commercial value, though it is locally eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Thickback sole?
The Thickback sole has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Right-eyed sole-like flatfish with a row of broad, dark vertical bars across the upper side, often alternating with paler bands.
Where does the Thickback sole live?
The Thickback sole lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf and slope.
How big does the Thickback sole get?
The Thickback sole grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 14 cm.
Is the Thickback sole dangerous to humans?
No, the Thickback sole is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Thickback sole edible?
The Thickback sole is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Thickback sole and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Microchirus
More from the family Soleidae
Want the complete picture on the Thickback sole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Thickback sole is one of 12,519 species in the app.