This flatfish identification guide is intended to provide information and key characteristics for the most common flatfish species in Washington marine waters. To access species information click on the common or scientific name listed in the left hand column. For each species, information is available on expected sizes, typical distribution, and published ages.
Some key identification characteristics to look for are:
Anal spine
This is a hard, sharp spine pointing forward and located in front of the anal fin, near the anus.
Accessory dorsal branch (ADB)
A branch of the lateral line running from near the head back toward the tail, just below the base of the dorsal fin.
Lateral line
A series of modified scales with pore-like openings to a sensory canal along the side of a fish.
Eyed side
The top side of a flatfish. This side has eyes and is more darkly pigmented than the side that lies against the bottom (blind side).
For additional identification assistance, a dichotomous key for flatfish is available through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Webpage at: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/FishID/FishIDFlatfish.asp
The NOAA-Alaska Fisheries Science Center also provides identification information about flatfish common off the Alaskan Coast at: http://www.afsc.noaa.gov/race/media/photo_gallery/fish_by_family.htm