Southern Flounder
The southern flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma) is a demersal fish found in the western Atlantic, particularly along the coasts from Virginia to northern Mexico. It thrives in brackish and coastal waters, often in bays and estuaries. This species is popular among anglers and is also commercially fished. Known for its flat, asymmetrical body, the southern flounder is well-adapted to life on the seafloor.
Length~30 (max 83)
Weight~2 (max 8)
WaterSalt
Water Temp15-23° F
Depth1-40 ft
- Other names-
- Length~30 (max 83)
- Weight~2 (max 8)
- WaterSalt
- Water Temp15-23° F
- Depth1-40 ft
Popular lures for Southern Flounder
Regulation for Southern Flounder
- Season-
- Bag limit-
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size-
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Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Southern flounders prefer shallow coastal areas, especially in brackish bays and estuaries
- They often inhabit mud bottoms where they can easily camouflage themselves
- The species can tolerate low salinity levels and is occasionally found in freshwater
- Their diet consists mainly of small fish, crabs, and shrimps
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs offshore in deeper waters, typically during the cooler months
- After hatching, larvae drift into estuaries, where they develop into juveniles
- Juveniles and adults migrate inshore and are often found near estuarine habitats
- The species exhibits distinct pairing during the mating season