Largetooth Flounder, Pseudorhombus arsius (Hamilton-Buchanan, 1822)

Introduction

The Largetooth Flounder has an impressive set of teeth in the front of its jaws, and anglers should be wary when removing hooks from the mouth this species.

Identification

The species varies in colour, closely matching the substrate it is resting on. It is best separated from other members of its genus by the presence of two dark spots placed centrally on its dorsal surface. The first is located just behind the pectoral fin, the second is halfway between the first spot and the tail fin.

Habitat

Sand or mud bottoms, occasionally in estuaries. Recorded to a depth of 100 m.

Distribution

The species occurs throughout the Indo-west Pacific region. In Australia is is found in the coastal waters of all states, with the exceptions of Victoria and Tasmania.

The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Click on the map for detailed information. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.

References

1. Allen, G.R. 1997. Marine Fishes of Tropical Australia and South-east Asia. Western Australian Museum. Pp. 292.
2. Hoese, D.F., Bray, D.J., Paxton, J.R. & G.R. Allen. 2006. Fishes. In Beesley, P.L. & A. Wells. (eds) Zoological Catalogue of Australia. Volume 35. ABRS & CSIRO Publishing: Australia. parts 1-3, pages 1-2178.
3. Kuiter, R.H. 2000. Coastal Fishes of South-eastern Australia. Gary Allen. Pp. 437.