How to Identify Lined Sole

To identify Lined Sole (Achirus lineatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically mottled brown, gray, or olive, often with irregular dark spots and faint transverse bands, providing excellent camouflage. The ventral surface is white or pale. Some individuals may exhibit faint dark lines or spots on the fins. The 'lined' aspect of its common name refers to the dark lines often present on the body.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Dextral (right-eyed) flatfish, meaning both eyes are on the right side of the head., Small, oval, and highly compressed body., Absence of pectoral fins in adults., Fringe of small, hair-like cirri along the blind side of the head and body., Lateral line prominent and arched over the pectoral region.

Dorsal fin

Long, continuous, originating anterior to the eyes, with 50-58 rays. Not connected to the caudal fin.

Tail fin

Small, rounded, distinct from dorsal and anal fins, with 12-14 rays.

Pectoral fin

Absent in adults; present as rudimentary structures in larvae.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin long and continuous, with 37-44 rays. Pelvic fins are small, asymmetrical, and located anterior to the anal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Eye Placement

   Both eyes are located on the right side of the head (dextral).

2. 2

   Body Shape and Size

   Small, oval, and very flat body, typically reaching a maximum length of 15-20 cm (6-8 inches).

3. 3

   Pectoral Fins

   Adults lack pectoral fins, a key distinguishing feature from many other flatfish.

4. 4

   Cirri

   Presence of small, fleshy filaments (cirri) along the blind side of the head and body.

5. 5

   Coloration

   Mottled brown/gray/olive dorsal surface with irregular dark markings and a white ventral surface.

Explore Lined Sole