Limanda

Limanda is a genus of flatfish in the family Pleuronectidae, commonly known as dab. They are found in the northern Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, and the western Pacific Ocean. These fish are commercially important and are often targeted by fisheries. Limanda species are typically demersal, meaning they inhabit the bottom of the ocean floor.

Yellowfin sole – Limanda aspera

Characteristics

Limanda species have a characteristic flattened body shape, with both eyes located on the same side of their head. They have a slightly elongated body and a small mouth.

These flatfish are generally brown or gray in color, with darker blotches or spots. Some species, like the yellowtail flounder (Limanda ferruginea), have a distinctive yellow tail fin. The dorsal and anal fins are relatively long and extend along the entire length of the body. The pelvic fin is located on the blind side of the fish.

Environments

Limanda species prefer sandy or muddy bottoms in coastal areas, often in depths ranging from 20 to 200 meters. They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and salinities.

Diet

Limanda are carnivorous and feed primarily on small invertebrates such as crustaceans, worms, and mollusks. They also consume small fish.

Reproduction

Limanda species spawn in the spring and summer. The eggs are pelagic, meaning they float in the water column.

Common Names

Common names for Limanda species include:

  • Dab
  • Yellowtail flounder
  • European dab
  • American dab

Species

The genus Limanda includes the following species:

  • Limanda aspera (Pallas, 1814) - Rough dab
  • Limanda ferruginea (Storer, 1839) - Yellowtail flounder
  • Limanda limanda (Linnaeus, 1758) - European dab
  • Limanda proboscidea (Gilbert, 1904) - Longnose dab

References

For more information on Limanda, refer to the following websites: