Fin's Fish Guide
The Turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scophthalmidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea, the Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms.
Description
The turbot is a large, almost circular flatfish of the family Scophthalmidae reaching about 1 metre. Unlike most flatfish the turbot lies on its right side, so both eyes are on the left. The skin lacks scales but bears scattered bony tubercles; the upper side is brownish and mottled and can change colour and pattern very fast for perfect camouflage on sandy bottoms. The species lives on sand and gravel bottoms of the north-eastern Atlantic, the North Sea, the Baltic and the Mediterranean. As an ambush hunter it lies buried and seizes bottom fish and crustaceans. The turbot is one of the most prized food fish; through overfishing it is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Turbot?
The Turbot has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Almost round, left-eyed flatfish without scales but with small bony tubercles on the upper side; a master at changing colour and camouflage.
Where does the Turbot live?
The Turbot lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea, the Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms.
How big does the Turbot get?
The Turbot grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Turbot dangerous to humans?
No, the Turbot is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Turbot edible?
Yes, the Turbot is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Turbot 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 Scophthalmus
More from the family Scophthalmidae
Want the complete picture on the Turbot?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Turbot is one of 12,519 species in the app.