The Bay whiff (Citharichthys spilopterus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The bay whiff is a small, oval flatfish of the family Paralichthyidae reaching about 21 cm. Like all flatfish the larva starts symmetrical and tilts onto the bottom as it grows; in this species both eyes lie on the left side. The upper side is brown with dark spots and matches the colour of the bottom, the underside white. The species lives buried on soft sand and mud bottoms of coastal water, estuaries and lagoons along the western Atlantic coast; juveniles range far into brackish water. As an ambush hunter it takes small crustaceans, worms and small fish. Because of its small size it is mainly a prey fish and bycatch, not targeted by fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bay whiff?
The Bay whiff has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Bay whiff live?
The Bay whiff lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Bay whiff get?
The Bay whiff grows to a maximum of about 21 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Bay whiff dangerous to humans?
No, the Bay whiff is harmless to humans.
Is the Bay whiff edible?
The Bay whiff is rarely eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Citharichthys
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.