Flounder

Flounder are a group of flatfish rather than a single species, known for their flattened bodies and both eyes on one side of the head.

Flounder are a group of flatfish rather than a single species, known for their flattened bodies and both eyes on one side of the head. They live on or near the seafloor in oceans around the world, and some species also occur in estuaries and other coastal waters. The name is used for several related fish in different families within the order Pleuronectiformes.

Classification

Flounder is a common name applied to multiple flatfish species in the order Pleuronectiformes. Depending on region, the name may refer to different species in families such as Pleuronectidae, Paralichthyidae, Bothidae, and others.

Description

Flounder are laterally flattened fish adapted for life on the seafloor. As they mature, one eye migrates to the other side of the head, producing the characteristic one-sided appearance of adult flatfish.

Habitat and distribution

Flounder occur in marine and brackish waters around the world, especially on sandy or muddy bottoms in coastal areas, bays, and estuaries. Some species also move between salt water and freshwater environments.

Diet and behaviour

Flounder are bottom-dwelling predators that feed on small fish, crustaceans, worms, and other invertebrates. Many species use camouflage and lie motionless on the bottom to ambush prey.