Fin's Fish Guide
The West coast sole (Austroglossus microlepis) is a saltwater fish of the family Soleidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Description
The west coast sole is a sole from the southeast Atlantic, along the coast of northern Namibia to False Bay in South Africa. The species grows to about 75 cm and has the typical, strongly asymmetric flatfish body with both eyes on one side and a plain brown upper side. As a bottom-dweller it lives on soft bottoms between about 100 and 400 metres depth and feeds on worms, crustaceans, molluscs and small fish. It is a commercial flatfish. Owing to insufficient data the IUCN lists the species as Data Deficient (DD).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the West coast sole?
The West coast sole has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Asymmetrical flatfish body; commercial deep-water sole
Where does the West coast sole live?
The West coast sole lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Atlantic
How big does the West coast sole get?
The West coast sole grows to a maximum of about 75 cm.
Is the West coast sole dangerous to humans?
No, the West coast sole 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 West coast sole edible?
Yes, the West coast sole is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Austroglossus
More from the family Soleidae
Want the complete picture on the West coast sole?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the West coast sole is one of 12,519 species in the app.