The Largescale Dwarf Flounder (Engyprosopon macrolepis) reaches a maximum length of 16 cm (6.3 in) and a weight of 47 g (1.66 oz). This flatfish inhabits sandy and muddy substrates on the ocean floor, occasionally near coral reefs, at depths ranging from 3 to 91 m (10 to 299 ft). It occurs in the 🌊 Red Sea. Its dorsal fin has 76 to 85 soft rays and its anal fin has 58 to 63 soft rays; neither fin possesses spines. Ctenoid scales cover its ocular (eyed) side, while cycloid scales are present on its blind side. Gill rakers are elongated.
Males exhibit distinct features, including an ocular flap with red spots and a scalloped margin on each eye, along with orbital and rostral spines on the ocular side. The second pectoral fin ray on their ocular side is notably elongated, and their blind side displays darker pigmentation. Sexual dimorphism is evident in male interorbital width and the lengths of their ocular-side pectoral and pelvic fins. The genus name Engyprosopon derives from Greek, meaning "nearly a face," referring to its facial characteristics.
- ocular flap on each eye with red spots (males)
- orbital and rostral spines on the ocular side (males)
- elongated second pectoral fin ray on the ocular side (males)
Why it's threatened
No major threats are known for this species. This is a relatively small-sized flatfish (up to 5.9 cm SL) that occurs in waters where trawling may occur. It may be taken in the by-catch of demersal trawls in some areas.
Threat classification from the IUCN Red List.
