Senegalese Sole

Solea senegalensis

The Senegalese Sole is a flatfish with a distinctive oval, asymmetric body and both eyes on the right side. It can be identified by its greyish-brown coloration on the eyed side, adorned with blue spots, and a whitish blind side. A key feature distinguishing it from similar species like the common sole is the black membrane on the pectoral fin of the eyed side. This species typically reaches a length of 45 cm, though it can grow up to 60 cm. This species inhabits the eastern Atlantic, from southern Great Britain to Angola, and has expanded into the Mediterranean Sea. It prefers sandy or muddy bottoms in coastal waters, lagoons, and brackish environments, at depths up to 100 meters, though most are found shallower than 60 meters. The Senegalese Sole feeds on small benthic invertebrates, including polychaetes, bivalves, and small crustaceans. Spawning occurs in the summer, peaking in June around the Iberian Peninsula. Females reach sexual maturity at around 3 years of age and 30 cm in length. Divers may encounter this species on sandy or muddy bottoms, where it blends in with its surroundings. The IUCN lists the Senegalese Sole as Data Deficient.