Common name: eyed flounder

General information

The Peacock Flounder, also known as the Plate Fish or Flowery Flounder, is a unique and fascinating species that adds a touch of intrigue to any marine aquarium. This species is known for its remarkable ability to camouflage itself against various substrates, changing its coloration and pattern to blend in with its surroundings. The eyes of the Peacock Flounder are positioned on the left side of its body, which lies flat against the substrate.

Care

Peacock Flounders require a sandy or fine-gravel substrate in the aquarium to mimic their natural habitat. They are carnivorous, feeding on a diet of small fish and invertebrates. It's important to provide a variety of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. They can be shy and may need time to acclimate to the presence of other tank inhabitants.

Reproduction

In the wild, Peacock Flounders are known to spawn during the warmer months. In captivity, breeding is rare, but with the right conditions, it may be possible. They exhibit external fertilization, where the female releases eggs and the male fertilizes them in the water column.

Habitat

Bothus ocellatus is found in shallow waters, typically not deeper than 100 meters. They prefer sandy or rubble substrates where they can easily camouflage. Their range extends across the Western Atlantic, from North Carolina in the USA to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.