Atlantic Halibut [Hippoglossus hippoglossus]
Description
The Atlantic Halibut is the largest species of flatfish, able to reach lengths of up to 15 feet and weights of 700 pounds. It is native to the North Atlantic Ocean, where it inhabits cold, deep waters. The species has a distinct asymmetrical body shape, with both eyes located on the right side of its body. It is a slow-growing species that matures late, leading to its vulnerability to overfishing. The Atlantic Halibut is a bottom-dweller, primarily feeding on other fish.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Fish
Actinopterygii
|
| Order |
Flatfishes
Pleuronectiformes
|
| Family |
Halibuts
Pleuronectidae
|
| Genus |
Atlantic Halibut
Hippoglossus
|