COMMON MARINE FISHES 



139 



Figure 109 



CURLFIN TURBOT 



Pleuronichthys decurrens 



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



Distinguishing Characters: See page 122. The lateral line which lacks a high 

 abrupt arch over the pectoral tin hut has a long dorsal branch which extends back to 

 about the middle of tlie inxly ; the dorsal fin which originates on the blind side on 

 a level with the corner of the mouth with at least the first nine of the dorsal rays on 

 the blind side; the high, narrow, bony ridge l)etween the eyes with a blunt, bony spine 

 at either einl ; a bony ijroinincnce in front of each eye and two or three behind the 

 upper eye ; the sinaii mouiii witli jaws and teeth better developed on the blind side ; the 

 maxillary extending to i)elow the fore part of the lower eye. Eyes on the right side. 

 Length to about a foot. Color: Yellowish brown to dark brown vaguely mottled with 

 brownish and grayish, fins dark. 



Distribution: Southern California north to Alaska. 



Fishing Season: Throughout the year. 



Importance: The most important turbot in Central and Northern California. 



Fishing Gear: Otter trawls, some hook and line. 



Unauthorized Name: California turbot. 



