How to Identify Pacific Sanddab

To identify Pacific Sanddab (Citharichthys sordidus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal (eyed) side varies from light tan to dark brown, often mottled with darker spots and blotches, allowing for excellent camouflage on sandy or muddy bottoms. The ventral (blind) side is typically white or cream-colored. Some individuals may exhibit faint dark spots on the fins.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Left-eyed flatfish (eyes on the left side of the head when viewed from above), Oval-shaped, highly compressed body, Large mouth extending to or beyond the anterior margin of the lower eye, Long dorsal and anal fins that nearly encircle the body, Small, ctenoid scales on the eyed side, cycloid scales on the blind side, Lateral line is strongly arched over the pectoral fin

Dorsal fin

Long, originating anterior to the upper eye, with 81-97 rays. Extends almost the entire length of the body.

Tail fin

Rounded or slightly pointed, distinct from dorsal and anal fins.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small, with the eyed-side pectoral fin typically longer than the blind-side fin. 10-13 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin is long, with 63-77 rays, mirroring the dorsal fin in length and shape. Pelvic fins are small and thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Eye Placement

   Always a left-eyed flatfish. If the eyes are on the right side, it is not a Pacific Sanddab.

2. 2

   Mouth Size

   The mouth is relatively large, extending to or past the front edge of the lower eye.

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   Observe the lateral line; it has a distinct, strong arch above the pectoral fin.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Oval and highly compressed, typical of sand flounders.

5. 5

   Coloration

   Cryptic, mottled brown to tan on the eyed side, white on the blind side. This can vary based on substrate.

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