Flounder

Fact File:

Common Name(s):
Flounder (fluke)

Scientific Name:
Platichthys flesus

Usual Size:
30 cm

UK Record Weights from rod/line:

Shore:5-07-00 River Teign, Devon B Sokell 1994

Boat:5-11-08 Fowley, Cornwall AGL Gobbledick 1956

MAFF Minimum Size: Shore: Boat:
NFSA minimum size, shore: 25 cm; boat: 25 cm

Identification:
Very white underside. Top surface is greenish-brown, often with indistinct reddish spots. The scales are rough, with pronounced rough scales along the lateral line.

Breeding:
Spawning takes place in depths of 20-40 m in Feb-May. Females may produce up to 2 million eggs. The pelagic larvae move to the bottom in shallow waters before completing metamorphosis. Maturity is reached at 3-4 years (20-35 cm).

Habitat:
Sandy and muddy bottoms, particularly estuaries. Some flounders may travel far upstream into completely fresh water.

Food:
Worms and crustaceans. The diet of older fish includes molluscs and small fishes.

Range:
Found throughout UK waters.

Additional Notes:
Although not regarded widely as a table fish, flounders caught during winter in the open sea can make good eating.

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