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Achiropsettidae
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Achiropsettidae

fish family
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Quick Summary

The Achiropsettidae family, also known as southern flounders, are a group of flatfish found in Antarctic and subantarctic seas. These fish are characterized by their extremely compressed bodies and sinistral (left-sided) eyes. Pectoral fins are rudimentary or absent, and their lateral line is straight.1

Flatfish, in general, are unique among bony fishes for their asymmetrical bodies, with both eyes migrating to one side during metamorphosis. This adaptation allows them to lie on the seafloor, camouflaged against the substrate. They primarily feed on crustaceans, invertebrates, and small fish. Humans are a significant predator of many flatfish species.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
4 Britannica Sources
  1. four-eyed fish
  2. pleuronectiform
  3. perciform - Annotated classification
  4. acouchy

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