Exploring the Fascinating World of Flat Fish Species: The Flounder's Unique Characteristics

The world of fish is a vast and wondrous place, with over 30,000 known species swimming in our oceans and waterways. Among these species, one group stands out for its unique characteristics and adaptations: the flat fish family. Today, we're going to take a closer look at one of the most fascinating members of this family - the flounder.

One of the most distinctive features of the flounder is its lateral line scale count, which ranges from 80 to 90 along its central length. This dark row of scales gives the fish its characteristic appearance and helps it blend in with its surroundings. The top side of the fish is a striking combination of dark green and yellowy brown hues, with noticeable tubercles - hard nodules that give the skin a slightly bumpy texture.

But what's truly remarkable about the flounder is its eyeless side. As larvae, these fish have eyes on either side of their body, just like most other fish. However, as they mature and settle on the sea bed, one eye migrates around to join the other on top of the head, resulting in a unique asymmetrical appearance. This remarkable transformation occurs about 50 days after hatching.

The flounder's flat shape is perhaps its most distinguishing feature compared to other freshwater fish. Its body flattens out from side to side, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the seafloor and ambush unsuspecting prey. The eyeless side of the fish is often pale, with some blotching, which helps it to hide among the sand and gravel.

In terms of size, the British record for a flounder weighs in at an impressive 5lb 11oz 8dms, set by the British Record Committee in 2015. While this may not be as large as some other fish species, the flounder's unique characteristics make it a standout among its peers.

In conclusion, the flounder is a fascinating example of evolution and adaptation in action. Its flat shape, lateral line scale count, and remarkable eye migration make it one of the most interesting fish species to learn about. Whether you're an avid angler or simply a lover of marine life, the flounder is sure to captivate and inspire.

Flat fish species