winter flounder

fish

Also known as: Pseudopleuronectes americanus

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July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

The winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus) is a rusty-brown flatfish found in the northwestern Atlantic Ocean. It is an important market fish, especially during the winter months.1

Flounders, in general, are morphogenetically unique. Upon hatching, they are bilaterally symmetrical with an eye on each side. As they mature, one eye migrates to the top side of the fish, and significant changes occur in their bones, nerves, and muscles. Adult flounders live on the seafloor with their eyes on their uppermost side. The winter flounder is a species within the Pleuronectidae family, which typically has eyes and coloring on the right side of the fish.2

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flounder
…pounds) in weight; and the winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus), an American Atlantic food fish, growing to about 60 cm (23 inches) in length. Flounders in that family typically have the eyes and colouring on the right side.
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…pounds) in weight; and the winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus), an American Atlantic food fish, growing to about 60 cm (23 inches) in length. Flounders in that family typically have the eyes and colouring on the right side.
Read More