Fin's Fish Guide
The Three-spot flounder (Ancylopsetta dendritica) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The three-spot flounder is a flatfish (left-eyed flounder) from the eastern Pacific, off the coast of Central and South America. The species grows to about 35 cm and has an oval, strongly flattened, brown body with both eyes on the left side and three conspicuous dark, pale-ringed spots. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried in sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf, between about 18 and 100 metres, and hunts small fish and crustaceans. It is a local food fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Three-spot flounder?
The Three-spot flounder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Three dark, pale-edged blotches; burrowing slope flounder
Where does the Three-spot flounder live?
The Three-spot flounder lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Three-spot flounder get?
The Three-spot flounder grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Three-spot flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Three-spot 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 Three-spot flounder edible?
Yes, the Three-spot 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 Ancylopsetta
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Three-spot flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Three-spot flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.