The Panther Flounder, Bothus pantherinus, belongs to the family Bothidae and is also known as the Panther Yellowsnout Flounder or Leopard Flounder. It has an oval, laterally compressed body, typically measuring around 20 centimeters (8 inches) in length, reaching a maximum of 39 centimeters (15 inches). Females are generally larger than males. Its eyes are positioned on the right side of its head. The body and fins display a pattern of dark spots and rings, reminiscent of a panther's coat, which gives the species its common name. This pattern allows for effective camouflage; the flounder can rapidly change its coloration and skin texture to match its surroundings.
It inhabits sandy or muddy bottoms, seagrass beds, and coral reef flats, found at depths ranging from 3 to 150 meters (10 to 492 feet). Juveniles may occur in very shallow reef lagoons. This benthic species is an ambush predator, remaining buried in the substrate or motionless, waiting for prey. It feeds primarily on small crustaceans, molluscs, and small fish, striking rapidly when prey approaches. It has long dorsal fins with 84 to 97 soft rays and anal fins with 61 to 73 soft rays.
The species. Bothus pantherinus (Rüppell 1830) - like a panther. ETYFish
- dark spots and rings on body and fins
- three prominent dark blotches on lateral line
- eyes on left side of head
