Fin's Fish Guide
The Tropical flounder (Paralichthys tropicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Western Atlantic, along the Caribbean coast of Colombia and Venezuela to Trinidad and Tobago.
Description
The tropical flounder is a left-eyed flatfish of the family Paralichthyidae from the western Atlantic, along the Caribbean coast of northern South America. As in all members of this family both eyes lie on the left side of the head; the species can reach about 50 cm. It lives on mud and sand bottoms from shallow water to about 185 m deep, where it lies half-buried in ambush for small fishes and crustaceans. The large, toothed mouth betrays its predatory habits. The fish is marketed fresh.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tropical flounder?
The Tropical flounder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Left-sided flatfish (both eyes on the left); stalking predator on soft bottoms.
Where does the Tropical flounder live?
The Tropical flounder lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic, along the Caribbean coast of Colombia and Venezuela to Trinidad and Tobago.
How big does the Tropical flounder get?
The Tropical flounder grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Tropical flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Tropical flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Tropical flounder edible?
The Tropical flounder is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Tropical flounder?
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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 Tropical flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tropical flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.