Solea
Solea is a genus of flatfish in the family Soleidae. Members of this genus are commonly called soles, and are found in marine waters worldwide. These fish are characterized by their flattened bodies, which lie on the seafloor, and their eyes located on the upper side of their head. Solea species are typically found in shallow coastal waters, often burying themselves in the sand or mud. They are carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates and fish.
Common Names
Common names for fish belonging to the genus Solea include:
- Sole
- Common sole
- European sole
- Dover sole
Characteristics
Solea species share several key characteristics, including:
- Flattened body: They are laterally compressed, with their bodies adapted for lying on the seafloor.
- Eyes on one side of the head: This is a typical feature of flatfish, allowing them to see above their buried bodies.
- Mouth on the underside of the head: This helps them feed on prey on the seafloor.
- Small scales: These scales are often embedded in the skin.
- Coloration: The upper side of the body is often mottled or patterned, providing camouflage on the seafloor. The underside is typically white.
- Size: Solea species can range in size from a few centimeters to over a meter in length, depending on the species.
Environment
Solea species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Coastal waters: They are typically found in shallow waters near the shoreline.
- Sand and mud bottoms: They often bury themselves in the sediment, using their flattened bodies for camouflage.
- Estuaries: Some Solea species tolerate brackish water conditions.
- Temperatures: They are found in a range of temperatures, depending on the species and location.
References
For more information, refer to these reliable sources: