Pleuronichthys
Pleuronichthys is a genus of flatfish in the family Pleuronectidae, commonly known as the right-eyed flounders. They are found in the Pacific Ocean, from the Bering Sea to California, and are characterized by their flattened bodies, asymmetrical skulls, and eyes located on the right side of their heads. These fish are typically benthic, meaning they live on the ocean floor, and are known for their cryptic coloration that helps them blend into their surroundings.
Common Names
Members of the Pleuronichthys genus are commonly referred to as "right-eyed flounders" or simply "flounders". Some species have specific common names, such as the "sand sole" (Pleuronichthys coenosus) and the "longfin sole" (Pleuronichthys decurrens).
Characteristics
Pleuronichthys species are distinguished by the following characteristics:
- Flattened Body: Like all flatfish, they possess a compressed body that allows them to lie flat on the seafloor.
- Asymmetrical Skull: Their skulls are twisted, with both eyes positioned on one side of their heads. This allows for a better vantage point while lying on the ocean floor.
- Right-Eyed: Pleuronichthys species are "right-eyed flounders", meaning their eyes are located on the right side of their head.
- Cryptic Coloration: They often exhibit camouflage patterns that allow them to blend in with their surroundings, making them difficult to spot by predators.
Environment
Pleuronichthys species are found in various marine environments, including:
- Benthic: They live on the ocean floor, typically in sandy or muddy substrates.
- Coastal Waters: They are common in shallow coastal waters, from the intertidal zone to depths of several hundred meters.
- Pacific Ocean: Their distribution ranges from the Bering Sea to California, with some species extending further south.
References
For more information on Pleuronichthys, you can refer to the following resources: