Whiskered sole
Monochirus hispidus
Special features
Similar to other flatfish, the Whiskered sole undergoes a transformation in which the face of the small larval fish moves to the other side of the body.
Appearance
The Whiskered sole is sole-shaped to lie flat on the ground.
It is characterized by dorsal and anal fins, which surround almost the entire body and look like a wreath of small feathers.
The scales are very rough. The upper side is grey-brown with irregular dark spots, which can also cover the fin seams.
The eyes are round and indeed pretty.
Natural enemies
Predatory fish
Dangerous/Venomous
The fur sole is neither dangerous nor venomous.
Sketch
1. Both eyes are directed upwards, not sideways
Pro tips
The Whiskered sole feeds on animals that live in the soil, in particular worms.
It is actually is very common in the Mediterranean.
However, spotting it on the ground is an art, as it's very well camouflaged.
Text: Carolina Leiter, Felician Hosp, Pia Balaka
Pic: Felician Hosp
Illustration: Dive Dict
