Flounder

Flounder are flatfish. Other species of flatfish include sole, dab, fluke, halibut, plaice, and turbot. The distinction between the different species is confusing, for instance, some soles and flounders are known by both names. In southern states the preference is flounder, and in northern states, it is sole. Scientifically, however, they are all members of one taxonomic order: Pleuronectiformes or “Flatfish”, a name actually meaning “side-swimmers.” Within this order there are four commercially important families: Bothidae, Scophthaimidae, Pleuronectidae, and Soleidae. True sole only belongs to the Soleidae family. The most important family in commercial terms is the Pleuronectidae family, which includes Alaska plaice and European plaice.

Flatfish (as flounder are commonly referred) are the only vertebrates that have asymmetry, both eyes on one side of the head. Some species are sinistral (left-eyed) and some are dextral (right-eyed). Flatfish have unique coloration. The side of the eyes is darker, often spotted, while the underside is a creamy white color. Cooked meat is white.