During colder months, the winter flounder can be found throughout the Chesapeake Bay. Come summer, the flatfish retreats to deeper waters or migrates offshore. (Eric Heupel/Flickr)
Also known as the black back, the winter flounder is a sizeable flatfish whose small head and mouth are located on the right side of its body. Well-adapted to living on the bottom of the Chesapeake Bay, the winter flounder is a common find and popular catch during colder months.
Appearance:
Flat, elliptical body bears small head and mouth on right side, making it a "rightside flatfish"
Distinct pectoral fin present just behind gill opening. Separate small pelvic fin present on belly
Small teeth present on left side of each jaw
Color pattern of "dark side" (the side of the fish that faces up) can change depending on the color and pattern of surrounding substrate, ranging from reddish brown to olive green to almost black
Underside is white
Adults can reach two feet in length and six pounds in weight, although inshore specimens (like those found in the Chesapeake Bay) are often eight to 16 inches
Habitat:
Found most often on muddy or vegetated bottoms
Young common in shallow waters in summer
Range:
Found throughout the Chesapeake Bay. Less common during summer months, when it retreats to deeper waters or migrates offshore
Range extends from Labrador, Canada, to Georgia
Feeding:
Flat body allows it to lie half-buried in bottom sands or silts, dark side up, alert for passing prey
Feeds on small crustaceans and worms
Reproduction and Life Cycle:
Spawning occurs in nearshore and estuarine waters from late winter to early spring
Other Facts:
A valuable food fish in the twentieth century, the winter flounder remains a popular commercial and recreational catch
