Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowtail flounder (Limanda ferruginea) is a saltwater fish of the family Pleuronectidae that grows up to 56 cm.
Western Atlantic off the east coast of North America, on sand and silty bottoms of the cool continental shelf.
Description
The yellowtail flounder is a right-eyed flatfish of the family Pleuronectidae reaching about 56 cm. Both eyes lie on the right side, which is brown and spotted with a yellowish tinge on the tail and the edges of the dorsal and anal fins, from which the species takes its name; the underside is white. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the cool continental shelf of the western Atlantic off the east coast of North America. On the bottom it hunts worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. Like all flatfish the young start symmetrical and, after metamorphosis, sink onto their side to the bottom. It is an important commercial flatfish in the north-west Atlantic fishery.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowtail flounder?
The Yellowtail flounder has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Right-eyed dab with a brown-blotched eyed side and a yellowish tinge on the tail and the fin margins, to which it owes its name.
Where does the Yellowtail flounder live?
The Yellowtail flounder 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 sand and silty bottoms of the cool continental shelf.
How big does the Yellowtail flounder get?
The Yellowtail flounder grows to a maximum of about 56 cm.
Is the Yellowtail flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowtail flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellowtail flounder edible?
Yes, the Yellowtail flounder is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Limanda
More from the family Pleuronectidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellowtail flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowtail flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.