Darkspotted Sole

Liachirus melanospilos

The Darkspotted Sole is a small flatfish found in tropical marine environments of the Indo-West Pacific region, including areas like the Laccadives, Singapore, Indonesia, and Japan. This species inhabits coastal sand slopes and estuaries, dwelling at depths ranging from 3 to 20 meters. Divers may encounter this fish on sandy bottoms where it blends seamlessly with its surroundings due to its cryptic coloration. Measuring up to 15 cm in length, the Darkspotted Sole is characterized by its flattened body and the presence of dorsal soft rays numbering between 59 and 62, and anal soft rays between 42 and 47. It is equipped with 33 to 34 vertebrae. The species is harmless to humans and is of minor commercial interest in fisheries. Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Darkspotted Sole poses no significant threat to divers. Its behavior is typically bottom-dwelling and sand-dwelling, making it a subtle presence on dives.