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dusky flounder
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Illustration comparing the body shape and sexual dimorphism of the Dover or common sole (Solea solea) and dusky flounder (Syacium papillosum), showing both female and male dusky flounder with subtle differences in size and coloration. Illustration of a female and male dusky flounder (Syacium papillosum), both flat, oval-shaped fish with both eyes on one side of the head, shown side by side with a scale bar for size reference.
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dusky flounder

fish
Also known as: Syacium papillosum
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Illustration comparing the body shape and sexual dimorphism of the Dover or common sole (Solea solea) and dusky flounder (Syacium papillosum), showing both female and male dusky flounder with subtle differences in size and coloration.
Body plan and sexual dimorphism in the common sole (Solea solea) and dusky flounder (Syacium papillosum).

The dusky flounder (Syacium papillosum) is a species of flatfish found in the tropical western Atlantic. Like other flounders, it undergoes a significant transformation after birth. Initially, it is bilaterally symmetrical with an eye on each side and swims near the surface. Within days, it begins to lean to one side, and one eye migrates to the top side of the fish. This process involves complex changes in bones, nerves, and muscles, causing the underside to lose its color. As an adult, the flounder lives on the seabed with its eyes on its upper side. The dusky flounder typically has its eyes and coloring on the left side. The southern flounder (Paralichthys lethostigmus) is a related species found on the south Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the U.S..12

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. flounder
  2. southern flounder
  3. dusky duck

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