Limanda aspera is a species of flatfish belonging to the family Pleuronectidae. Commonly known as the rough dab, this species is found in the North Atlantic Ocean, inhabiting both coastal and deeper waters.
Description & Characteristics
Limanda aspera is characterized by its elongated, oval body shape, with a slightly convex dorsal profile. The fish can reach a maximum size of 49.0 cm. It has a rough, granular texture on its skin, giving it its common name. The upper side, or eyed side, is typically brown to grayish-brown in color, often with darker blotches or spots. The underside, or blind side, is white. The mouth is slightly oblique, with a small, protrusible lower jaw. The eyes are located on the right side of the body, with the lower eye being positioned slightly forward.
Habitat and Occurrence
Limanda aspera is a demersal fish, meaning it lives on or near the bottom of the seafloor. It has a wide depth range, occurring from the surface to depths of 700.0 meters. The species is found in both coastal waters and deeper, offshore areas, inhabiting various marine zones, including the neritic and bathyal zones.
Taxonomy
Limanda aspera belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Pleuronectiformes, and Family: Pleuronectidae. This family encompasses a diverse group of flatfishes, characterized by their flattened bodies and asymmetrically placed eyes. The Order Pleuronectiformes, or flatfishes, is a large and diverse group of fishes, notable for their unique body shape and adaptation to bottom-dwelling life. The Class: Teleostei includes the vast majority of bony fishes, representing a highly successful and diverse group.
Feeding
Limanda aspera is a carnivorous fish, feeding primarily on benthic invertebrates, such as crustaceans, mollusks, and polychaetes. Its diet may also include small fish. The fish uses its sensory organs to locate prey on the seafloor and utilizes its protrusible mouth to capture and consume its food.
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