Southern flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma) fish species and information / pictures of Southern flounder - Paralichthys lethostigma

Southern flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma) fish species information

Scientific Name
Paralichthys lethostigma

Common Name
Southern flounder

Biology
Found mostly over mud bottoms in estuaries and coastal waters to about 40 m depth. A cryptic species; tolerates low salinities; occurs frequently in brackish bays and estuaries, even on occasion in fresh water (Ref. 9988). Taken by anglers inshore from bridges, jetties and small boats; this species moves to deeper water in winter, but is still easily accessible (Ref. 9988). Feeds chiefly on fishes, also on crabs and shrimps. Juveniles take mainly small bottom-living invertebrates. Marketed fresh and frozen; eaten steamed, fried, boiled, microwaved and baked (Ref. 9988).

Classification

Classified By
Jordan & Gilbert, 1884
Class
Ray-finned fishes (Actinopterygii)
Order
Flatfishes (Pleuronectiformes)
Family
Large-tooth flounders (Paralichthyidae)

Distribution

Region
Western Atlantic
Distribution
Western Atlantic: North Carolina to Texas in USA, but absent from southern Florida.
Range
37°N - 26°N

Environment

Climate
Subtropical
Water Temperature From
Unknown °C
Water Temperature To
Unknown °C
Depth From - meters
Unknown m
Depth To - meters
Unknown m
Zone
demersal
Environment
Marine; brackish; demersal
Trophic Level
3.58 s.e. 0.58 Based on diet studies.
Occurs in Marine / Salt water
True
Occurs in Brackish water
True
Occurs in Fresh Water
False
Occurs on Reefs
False
Is kept in Aquariums
False

Physical Size and Genetics

Maximum Length
83.0 cm
Common Length
50.0 cm
Phylogenetic Diversity Index
PD50 = 0.5000 many relatives (e.g. carps) 0.5 - 2.0 few relatives (e.g. lungfishes)

Human Uses and Population

Human Uses
Fisheries: commercial; gamefish: yes
Vulnerability
Moderate vulnerability (44 of 100)
Resilience
Medium, minimum population doubling time 1.4 - 4.4 years (K=0.21-0.23; tmax=8)
Threat To Humans
  Harmless
IUCN Red List Status
  Not Evaluated