Marbled flounder

Marbled Flounder (Pseudopleuronectes yokohamae) is a species of flatfish from the family Pleuronectidae. It is native to the northwest Pacific Ocean, specifically the seas around Japan, Korea, and the East China Sea. The species is a demersal fish that lives on bottoms of sand or mud at depths of up to 200 meters.

Description

The Marbled Flounder is a right-eyed flounder, meaning its eyes are located on the right side of its body when it is viewed from above. It can reach a maximum length of 50 centimeters, but the average size is usually around 30 centimeters. The species is named for its distinctive marbled pattern, which serves as camouflage against the sandy or muddy bottoms where it lives.

Diet

The diet of the Marbled Flounder primarily consists of small benthic organisms, including crustaceans, worms, and other invertebrates. It is also known to eat small fish.

Reproduction

Marbled Flounder are oviparous, with females releasing eggs that are then fertilized externally. Spawning occurs from March to July, with peak spawning in April and May.

Commercial Importance

Marbled Flounder is a commercially important species in many parts of its range. It is caught both commercially and recreationally, and is often sold fresh or frozen. It is also a popular species for aquaculture due to its fast growth rate and high market value.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the Marbled Flounder is not currently evaluated by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many marine species, it is potentially threatened by overfishing and habitat degradation.

See Also

• Flatfish
• Pleuronectidae
• Aquaculture