The right eye then begins to move to the left side of the body, so that by the time it is 14 days old, both eyes are on the left side. During the rest of its life the flounder can lie in the sand on its right side with both eyes protruding from the sand allowing it to see over almost 360 degrees. In soles, another flatfish, the eyes migrate to the right side instead. Flatfish are also capable of rapidly changing the colors of their skin to match that of their surroundings. The panel on ther left side of the tank contains further information on the flatfish aquaculture and on the usefulness of these fish as a foodsource.
Volunteers are always present to discuss the other types of flatfish, such as soles, halibut, etc.
Some excellent pictures of the various Pacific flounders, soles and other flatfish exist in the NOAA files. Come, visit us for a great learning experience.