Fin's Fish Guide
The Oval flounder (Syacium ovale) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The oval flounder is a flatfish of the family Paralichthyidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an oval, strongly flattened body with both eyes on the left side; males have a wider eye spacing than females. It lives on flat sand bottoms of coastal waters, where it hides half-buried. As a bottom ambush predator it seizes passing small fishes and crustaceans. The oval flounder is marketed fresh and is a common bycatch of the coastal fishery. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Oval flounder?
The Oval flounder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Both eyes on the left side; males with a wider distance between the eyes than females.
Where does the Oval flounder live?
The Oval flounder lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; flat sandy bottoms of coastal waters.
How big does the Oval flounder get?
The Oval flounder grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Oval flounder dangerous to humans?
No, the Oval flounder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Oval flounder edible?
The Oval flounder is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Syacium
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Oval flounder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Oval flounder is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone