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Gulf Flounder

Paralichthys albigutta
Managed by: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Regions
Florida
Protected status
None
Also known as
—

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Size
Common to 14 inches (2 pounds)
Similar species
Southern flounder, P. lethostigma (may have 5 or more spots but they are not eyelike); summer flounder, P. dentatus (have 5 or more ocellated or eyelike spots on the body) Size: Common to 14 inches (2 pounds)
Appearance
  • Bottom-oriented flatfish with both eyes on the left side
  • Numerous spots and blotches on body with three prominent dark, eyelike spots forming a triangle-shape (one spot on lateral line, one above and one below)
  • Strong canine-like teeth
  • Wedge-shaped tail, its tip in the middle
Habitat
Inshore on sandy or mud bottoms, often ranging into tidal creeks. Occasionally caught on nearshore rocky reefs.
Behavior
Right eye migrates over to left side early in life. A bottom-dweller thought to spawn offshore. Feeds on crustaceans and small fishes. Ability to camouflage by changing colors to match their surrounding habitat and avoid predators.
Additional information
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Sources
Image credit: © Diane Rome Peebles