Hornyhead Turbot

Pleuronichthys verticalis

The hornyhead turbot is a flatfish species belonging to the family Pleuronectidae. It inhabits the subtropical waters of the eastern Pacific, ranging from Point Reyes in California to southern Baja California, and is also found in the northern and central eastern parts of the Gulf of California. This demersal fish prefers soft sand and mud bottoms and is typically found at depths between 9 and 200 meters. The hornyhead turbot can grow up to 37 centimeters in length. Divers encountering the hornyhead turbot will likely find it on sandy or muddy substrates. It primarily feeds on zoobenthos organisms, including amphipods, polychaetes, and clam siphons. The hornyhead turbot is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. Divers might notice its cryptic behavior, as it often camouflages with the ocean floor, making it a unique sight during dives.