Megrim

Overview

The megrim (Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis) is a left-eyed flatfish belonging to the Scophthalmidae family. It is widely distributed throughout the Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, where it typically inhabits deep-water environments.

Appearance

This species is characterized by a relatively narrow, elongated body and a notably large head with large eyes and a prominent lower jaw. As a left-eyed flatfish, both eyes are positioned on the left side of its head. Its coloration is generally a pale, yellowish-brown with darker, dusky patches across the body and dark grey fins. A key diagnostic feature is the distinct curve in its lateral line above the pectoral fin.

Distribution & habitat

Megrim are demersal fish, meaning they live on or near the sea floor. They show a strong preference for soft substrates, such as sandy or muddy bottoms, and are commonly found along the continental shelf and slope. While they can be found at various depths, they are most frequently encountered between 100 and 700 meters.

Biology & behavior

As predators, megrims actively hunt for food, though they are also known to partially burrow into the sea floor. They are relatively long-lived, with a maximum reported age of 16 years. Spawning typically occurs in deep waters, such as those off the coast of Iceland and to the west of the British Isles.

Feeding

Their diet is varied and consists primarily of small bottom-dwelling fish, such as gobies and sandeels, as well as squid and various crustaceans.