Sand Sole

Pegusa lascaris

The sand sole is a demersal fish species found in marine and brackish environments. It inhabits the northeastern and southeastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea, with occasional sightings in the Suez Canal and Sea of Azov. Divers might encounter this species at depths ranging from 5 to 350 meters, although it is most commonly found between 20 and 50 meters. The sand sole can grow up to 40 centimeters in length, with a typical size around 30 centimeters. Identifying the sand sole is relatively straightforward due to its distinctive features. It has a brownish-yellow or reddish-brown coloration with pale blotches and specks. The pectoral fin on its ocular side is marked by a black blotch with a white margin, which can sometimes be interrupted by light spaces or accompanied by dots. This species lacks dorsal and anal spines, and its dorsal and anal fins are connected to the base of the caudal fin by a low membrane. Sand soles feed primarily on crustaceans, including amphipods, mysids, shrimps, and decapods, as well as bivalves and polychaetes. They are considered harmless to humans and have a minor commercial fishery value. According to the IUCN Red List, the sand sole is classified as Least Concern.