Pacific Halibut and Similar Species
Hippoglossus stenolepis
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Pacific Halibut. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Atlantic Halibut
Hippoglossus hippoglossus
Key differences: The Atlantic Halibut generally has a less pronounced arch in its lateral line and a slightly less deeply forked tail. While both are large flatfish, their geographic distributions are distinct (Atlantic vs. Pacific).
California Halibut
Paralichthys californicus
Key differences: The California Halibut is a 'left-eyed' flatfish (sinistral), meaning its eyes are typically on the left side of its head, and it has a more oval body shape. It also has a less deeply forked tail and a smaller mouth relative to its size.
Greenland Halibut (Turbot)
Reinhardtius hippoglossoides
Key differences: Greenland Halibut has a less extreme migration of the left eye, which is still visible from the blind side. Its body is more elongated, and its blind side is often dusky or grayish, not pure white. Its tail is also less deeply forked.
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