Christmas Flounder

Distinguished by the presence of both eyes on the same side of the head, normal scales and generally plain coloration (Ref. 27547). Lateral line with a very low curve above pectoral fin, straight behind and with a short accessory branch on head; 73-76 pores on main portion; it is complete in males but in females as large as about 20 cm it is an open groove on the posterior part of the body (Ref. 10319). Most anterior dorsal ray above eye; anal with an embedded forward-pointing spine before first ray; caudal rounded (Ref. 27547). Eyed side dark olive green to brown, sometimes with scattered black dots or indefinite dark blotches; blind side white, rarely with brown lappings over from the eyed side; fins pale brownish, sometimes with a somewhat yellow tinge or traces of dark spots (Ref. 27547).

Reproduction cycle believed to occur only every second year (Ref. 27547).

Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 50 - 62; Analspines: 1; Analsoft rays: 35 - 44; Vertebrae: 37 - 38

A coastal species not found far offshore (Ref. 27547). Occurs at shallow depths on mud bottoms, often in brackish water and may even enter rivers (Ref. 4705). Benthic (Ref. 58426). Feeds on small fishes, bottom invertebrates (Ref. 4705), and zoobenthos (Ref. 27547). Moves closer inshore in the evenings, especially on a rising tide (Ref. 27547). Appears to move offshore in the fall and inshore in the spring (Ref. 27547).

A coastal species not found far offshore (Ref. 27547). Occurs at shallow depths on mud bottoms, often in brackish water (Ref. 4705) and frequently entering freshwaters (Ref. 59043). Benthic (Ref. 58426). Feeds on small fishes and bottom invertebrates (Ref. 4705). Moves closer inshore in the evenings, especially on a rising tide (Ref. 27547). Appears to move offshore in the fall and inshore in the spring (Ref. 27547).

fisheries: minor commercial; price category: medium; price reliability: very questionable: based on ex-vessel price for species in this family