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sanddab

fish
Also known as: Citharichthys
Written and fact-checked by
Britannica Editors
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History

sanddab, any of certain edible, American Pacific flatfishes of the genus Citharichthys (family Paralichthyidae). As in other flatfishes, sanddabs have both eyes on the same side of the head; as in other paralichthyids, the eyes are usually on the left side. The most common species of sanddab is the Pacific sanddab (C. sordidus), a brownish fish mottled, in the male, with dull orange. It grows to about 40 cm (16 inches) and 1 kg (2 pounds).

The name is also sometimes used for the American plaice, known in Europe as the rough dab (see plaice), and various other flatfishes.

This article was most recently revised and updated by John P. Rafferty.