COMMON MARINE FISHES 



137 



Figure 107 



DIAMOND TURBOT 

 Hypsopsetta guttulata 



Relationship: A member of family Pleuronectidae. (See page 122.) 



Distinguishing Characters: See page 122. The lack of a high abrupt arch in 

 the lateral line over the pectoral fin ; the long dorsal branch of the lateral line which 

 extends back more than half way along the body ; the small mouth, with the jaws 

 better developed on the blind side and with few, if any, of the small teeth on the eyed 

 side ; the maxillary extending to below the fore part of the lower eye ; the dorsal fin 

 starting on the midline of the body ; the lack of a high spiny ridge between the eyes ; 

 the depth of the body being about half of the entire length, including the tail. Eyes on 

 the right side. Length to about 18 inches and weight to about four pounds. Color: Dark 

 greenish brown to brown, mottled with paler shades. 



Distribution: Northern California south into the Gulf of California, most com- 

 monly in bays and sloughs. 



Fishing Season: Throughout the year. 



Importance: Of negligible commercial importance. Caught by sport fishermen in 

 Southern California bays. 



Fishing Gear: Hook and line. 



Unauthorized Name: Diamond flounder. 



