Bothidae
Bothidae is a family of flatfish, commonly known as the lefteye flounders or the left-eyed flounders. This family of fish comprises about 150 species, with most being marine, but some found in brackish waters. Bothids are found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate waters worldwide, with the highest diversity in the Indo-Pacific region.
Characteristics
Bothids are characterized by their flattened bodies, which lie on the seabed, and their eyes are positioned on the left side of the head. They are typically asymmetrical, with the left side of the body being pigmented and the right side being white. As a result, the right side of the body is buried in the sediment, and the left side faces upwards.
Bothids have a variety of adaptations that help them to survive in their benthic environment, including:
- A flattened body that allows them to lie flat on the seabed.
- Eyes that are positioned on one side of the head, allowing them to see upwards.
- A specialized lateral line system that helps them to sense vibrations in the water.
- A variety of camouflage patterns that help them to blend in with their surroundings.
Environment
Bothids are typically found in shallow waters, often in sandy or muddy bottoms. They are also found on coral reefs and in seagrass beds. They can be found at depths of up to 1000 meters.
Diet
Bothids are carnivores, and their diet consists mainly of small invertebrates, such as crustaceans, mollusks, and worms. They are opportunistic feeders, and their diet can vary depending on the availability of prey.
Reproduction
Bothids are oviparous, which means they lay eggs. They are typically broadcast spawners, releasing their eggs into the water column. The eggs are planktonic, meaning that they float freely in the water, until they hatch. The larvae are also planktonic, and they eventually settle to the bottom as juveniles.