What are flatfish?
Q: What are flatfish?
A: Flatfish are a type of fish that are rather flat and are ray-finned fish.
Q: Are all flatfish the same?
A: No, there are several different kinds of flatfish, some of which are fished commercially, like flounder, sole, turbot, plaice, and halibut.
Q: Why do flatfish have both eyes on one side of the head?
A: Flatfish have both eyes on one side of the head, the upper side, which is their main adaptation to living on the seabed (benthos).
Q: How do flatfish swim?
A: Flatfish swim with the upper side of their body facing upwards, and they can hide in the sand waiting for prey on the ocean floor.
Q: What is dynamic camouflage in flatfish?
A: Flatfish have a capacity for dynamic camouflage, which is under nervous control, and can change in 'real time' to match their background.
Q: What distinguishes the Order Pleuronectiformes?
A: The Order Pleuronectiformes is best looked upon as a group of fish which are adapted to the same habitat. They share those features which suit their life-style.
Q: Can flatfish see around them?
A: Flatfish have protrusible eyes, which means they can stick their eyes up a bit to see around.
