How to Identify Gulf Flounder

To identify Gulf Flounder (Paralichthys albigutta), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically olive-brown to gray, highly variable and capable of rapid color changes to match the substrate. Ventral side is white. Characterized by three prominent, ocellated (eye-like) dark spots forming a triangle on the eyed side, with the posterior spot often being the largest and most distinct. Numerous smaller, irregular dark spots and blotches are also present.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Left-eyed (eyes on the left side of the head), Three prominent ocellated dark spots forming a triangle on the eyed side, Large mouth with well-developed teeth, Strong ability to change coloration for camouflage

Dorsal fin

Long, continuous dorsal fin originating above the eye, with 79-86 soft rays.

Tail fin

Rounded caudal fin (tail fin).

Pectoral fin

Well-developed pectoral fins, the one on the eyed side is typically longer.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin is also long and continuous, with 61-68 soft rays. Pelvic fins are small and thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Eye Placement

   Always a left-eyed flounder (eyes on the left side of the head when viewed from above).

2. 2

   Ocellated Spots

   Presence of three distinct, dark, ocellated (eye-like) spots arranged in a triangle on the eyed side. The posterior spot is usually the largest and most prominent.

3. 3

   Mouth Size

   Relatively large mouth with sharp, well-developed teeth, extending to or beyond the posterior margin of the lower eye.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Highly variable coloration, but typically olive-brown to gray with numerous irregular dark spots and blotches, in addition to the three prominent ocellated spots.

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