Most people have heard of flounder, a popular dinner item. Flounder are a group of flatfish species found along the coasts and in estuaries. In the western Atlantic region, there are four species consisting of gulf, southern, summer, and winter flounder. A unique aspect of flounder is the migration of the eyes. Born with an eye on each side of its brain, one eye migrates until the fish has two eyes on one side of its body.
Not long-lived, southern flounder males typically live to over 2 years, while a female may live over 3 years. Females grow faster than males and both reach sexual maturity around 2 years. Males live mainly offshore, however, and females live inshore.
A good place to locate southern flounder in the greatest numbers are the areas near the coast. This moderately large species possesses a large mouth with sharp teeth. Though not the most beautiful fish, an ability to change color allows the flounder to ambush prey and camouflage in different habitats. Southern flounder are pigmented a light to dark brown. The ocular side of the southern flounder is the left side, while other species are ocular to the right. The underside is usually light in color. Maximum adult length is around 30 inches. While most weigh between 1 and 5 lbs., they can weigh up to 20 lbs.
When it’s time to eat, flounder use camouflage to hide from predators while looking for their own food. They feed in muddy areas, near coral reefs, and near docks. Their diet consists of small fish, fish spawn, crustaceans, and polychaetes.
While they find plenty to feed on, they are at risk from overfishing. Their habitat ranges from the Gulf of Mexico up to the Chesapeake Bay. Flounder use shallow water while young and move into larger estuaries as they age. During the winter months, they migrate offshore to spawn. Many flounder travel short distances, staying within the same bay system, while others may travel considerable distances.