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How do flounders catch crustaceans and small fish?

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Body plan and sexual dimorphism in the common sole (Solea solea) and dusky flounder (Syacium papillosum). — pleuronectiform Body plan and sexual dimorphism in the common sole (*Solea solea*) and dusky flounder (*Syacium papillosum*).

Flounders, which belong to the order Pleuronectiformes, are ambush predators that rely on concealment to capture their prey. They typically lie on the sea bottom, often burying themselves in sand or mud with only their eyes protruding. These eyes can be moved independently, allowing the fish to monitor its surroundings while remaining hidden.1

When hunting crustaceans, other bottom invertebrates, or small fish, the flounder remains completely motionless until the prey ventures within close range. Once the target is near, the flounder suddenly leaps off the bottom to pursue and capture it. This hunting strategy is supported by their ability to match the pattern of the surface on which they are resting, providing effective camouflage that helps them remain undetected by both prey and potential predators.12