128 



DIVISION OF FISH AND GAME 



SAND SOLE 

 Pseftichthys melanosticus 

 Relationship: A member of family Pleuronectidae. 



page 122.) 



Distinguishing Characters: See page 122. The lateral line being slightly 

 curved over the pectoral fin but not highly or abruptly arched ; the presence of a 

 dorsal branch to the lateral line ; the first few rays of the dorsal fin which are elon- 

 gated and not connected by a membrane for about half of their length ; the jaws and 

 teeth being about equally developed on both sides ; the maxillary which extends to or 

 almost to a point below the middle of the lower eye ; the small eyes ; the wide space 

 between the eyes ; the pectoral fin which is shorter than the head ; the rounded caudal 

 fin. Eyes on the right side. Reaches a length of 20 inches and a weight of four to five 

 pounds. Color: Brownish, vaguely mottled with darker, everywhere speckled with 

 dark brown or black. 



Distribution: Alaska to Southern Call 

 ception. 



uncommon south of Pt. Con- 



Fishing Season: Throughout the year. 



Importance: Forms a minor proportion of the sole catch in California. 



Fishing Gear: Otter trawls, some hook and line. 



Unauthorized Names: Fringe sole, spotted flounder. 



