How to Identify European Plaice

To identify European Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal (eyed) side is typically dark brown to olive-green with distinctive, irregularly shaped, bright orange or reddish spots. The ventral (blind) side is pure white. The spots are often surrounded by a pale ring.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Bright orange or reddish spots on the eyed side., A bony ridge behind the eyes, forming a prominent arch., Smooth skin with small, embedded cycloid scales., Right-eyed flatfish.

Dorsal fin

Long, extending from just behind the eye to the caudal peduncle, with 65-79 soft rays.

Tail fin

Rounded or slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Small, rounded, located on both sides, though the one on the blind side is often smaller.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin is also long, mirroring the dorsal fin, with 48-59 soft rays. Pelvic fins are small and located anteriorly.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Orange/Red Spots

   The most reliable distinguishing feature is the presence of bright orange or reddish spots on the dark upper surface. These spots are usually quite vivid and often have a pale halo.

2. 2

   Bony Ridge

   Feel for a distinct bony ridge or series of bony tubercles behind the eyes, forming an arch. This is a key characteristic of Pleuronectes platessa.

3. 3

   Right-Eyed

   Confirm it is a right-eyed flatfish (both eyes on the right side when viewed from the dorsal surface, with the mouth pointing left). This distinguishes it from left-eyed flatfish families.

4. 4

   Smooth Skin

   The skin is relatively smooth to the touch due to its small, embedded cycloid scales, unlike some other flatfish with rougher, ctenoid scales.

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