Lined Sole

Achirus lineatus

The lined sole is a ray-finned flatfish that inhabits the Western Atlantic, from Florida and the northern Gulf of Mexico down to northern Argentina. Divers can find this species in brackish or hypersaline lagoons, estuaries, and sandy-muddy bottoms, typically at depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters. It is well-adapted to its environment, often burying itself in the substrate with only its eyes visible, making it an expert at camouflage. This flatfish reaches a common length of about 17 cm, with some individuals growing up to 33.1 cm. It can be distinguished from similar species by the absence of vertical body bars and its right-eyed orientation, unlike the left-eyed flounders and tonguefishes it may be confused with. The lined sole feeds on worms, crustaceans, and small fishes, employing an ambush strategy to capture prey. Reproduction occurs year-round in some areas, with juveniles experiencing a brief planktonic stage before settling into a benthic lifestyle. The species is not of significant economic value and is often considered a trash fish in commercial trawling. According to the IUCN Red List, the lined sole is classified as Least Concern.