California Halibut [Paralichthys californicus]
Description
The California Halibut is found along the western coast of North America from Washington to Baja California. They inhabit sandy and muddy bottoms in both shallow inshore areas and deep offshore waters. They are predators that primarily feed on fish and squid. The California Halibut is known for its large size, up to 5 feet in length, and its ability to change its coloration to blend in with the ocean floor.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Fish
Actinopterygii
|
| Order |
Flatfishes
Pleuronectiformes
|
| Family |
Lefteye flounders
Bothidae
|
| Genus |
Paralichthys
Paralichthys
|