Scophthalmus

Scophthalmus is a genus of flatfish in the family Scophthalmidae, commonly known as turbots. They are found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. These bottom-dwelling fish are characterized by their flattened bodies, with both eyes on the same side of the head. They are carnivorous, feeding primarily on crustaceans, mollusks, and other fish.

Common Names

The genus Scophthalmus includes several species that are commonly known by different names. These include:

  • Turbot (Scophthalmus maximus)
  • Brill (Scophthalmus rhombus)
  • Black Turbot (Scophthalmus maeoticus)

Characteristics

Members of the genus Scophthalmus share several distinguishing features:

  • Flattened body: Like other flatfish, they have a laterally compressed body with both eyes on the same side of the head, typically the right side.
  • Rough skin: They have rough, bony scales called tubercles covering their skin.
  • Mouth: They have a large mouth with small, sharp teeth, adapted for catching and crushing their prey.
  • Coloration: Their coloration can vary, with some species exhibiting camouflage patterns that allow them to blend into their surroundings.

Environments

Scophthalmus species are found in a variety of marine habitats, primarily on the bottom of the sea floor. They are typically found in:

  • Sandy and muddy bottoms: They prefer areas with soft sediment, where they can bury themselves to ambush prey.
  • Coastal waters: They are often found in shallow coastal waters, but can also be found in deeper waters.
  • Temperature ranges: They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but are typically found in waters that are relatively warm and temperate.

References

For more information on the genus Scophthalmus, you can refer to the following reliable sources: