Tudor’s flounder – Ammotretis lituratus

Ammotretis lituratus is a species of flatfish belonging to the family Pleuronectidae, commonly known as the right-eyed flounders. They are characterized by their flattened bodies and the migration of one eye to the other side of the head during development, giving them an asymmetrical appearance. These adaptations allow them to lie camouflaged on the seabed, waiting for prey.

Description & Characteristics

Ammotretis lituratus can reach a maximum size of 23.0 cm. They possess a characteristic flattened body with a distinctive, asymmetrical shape. The eyes are located on the right side of the body, a feature shared by other right-eyed flounders. The color of Ammotretis lituratus can vary depending on their environment, typically blending in with the seabed to provide effective camouflage.

Habitat and Occurrence

Ammotretis lituratus is typically found at depths ranging from 40.0 to 80.0 meters. This species is primarily a demersal fish, meaning it lives on or near the seabed. Ammotretis lituratus is known to inhabit marine zones such as the continental shelf, often found in areas with sandy or muddy substrates.

Taxonomy

Ammotretis lituratus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Pleuronectiformes, and Family: Pleuronectidae. The Teleostei, which encompasses most of the bony fishes, are characterized by their advanced skeletal structure and diverse adaptations. The Order Pleuronectiformes, or flatfishes, are known for their flattened bodies and the migration of one eye to the other side of the head during development. The Family Pleuronectidae, which includes Ammotretis lituratus, is a large family of right-eyed flounders, distinguished by their characteristic asymmetrical body shape and the presence of the eyes on the right side of the body.

Feeding

Ammotretis lituratus is a carnivorous fish, feeding primarily on smaller invertebrates that they find on the seabed. They use their flattened bodies and camouflaged appearance to ambush prey, ambushing unsuspecting crustaceans, worms, and other small organisms.