Fin's Fish Guide
The Windowpane (Scophthalmus aquosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scophthalmidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Western Atlantic off the east coast of North America, on sandy bottoms of shallow coastal water and the continental shelf.
Description
The windowpane is an almost round, left-eyed flatfish of the family Scophthalmidae (turbots and brills) reaching about 46 cm. Both eyes lie on the left side, which is sandy-brown with fine spots. Characteristically the body is so thin and translucent that light shines through it, from which the species takes its name. It lives on sand bottoms of shallow coastal water and the continental shelf of the western Atlantic off the east coast of North America, where it buries itself and lies in wait. As an ambush predator it seizes small fish, shrimps and other crustaceans. Because of its thin, lean body it has little commercial importance, though it comes up as bycatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Windowpane?
The Windowpane has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Almost round, left-eyed flatfish with a body so thin and translucent that light shines through it (hence 'windowpane').
Where does the Windowpane live?
The Windowpane lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic off the east coast of North America, on sandy bottoms of shallow coastal water and the continental shelf.
How big does the Windowpane get?
The Windowpane grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Windowpane dangerous to humans?
No, the Windowpane is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Windowpane edible?
The Windowpane is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 Windowpane?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Windowpane is one of 12,519 species in the app.