Panther Flounder
Bothus pantherinus
Panther Flounder (Bothus pantherinus) is a tropical flatfish of sandy reefs and lagoon bottoms, often resting buried or camouflaged on the seafloor. It is a left-eyed flounder with bold dark blotches that mimic a leopard/panther pattern.
Identification points
- Left-eyed flatfish with both eyes on the same side of the head
- Tan to brown body covered in large dark panther-like spots and blotches
- Oval, flattened body with a very long dorsal and anal fin fringe
Habitat
Shallow tropical sandy and rubble bottoms, reef flats, lagoons, and seagrass edges; typically lies partly buried on the substrate in clear coastal marine waters.
Bait notes
Small live shrimp, minnows, and cut bait work best; tiny soft plastics, bucktails, and jigheads fished close to bottom can also take fish.
Behavior
Ambush predator that waits motionless on the bottom and strikes small fishes and crustaceans. It relies on camouflage and can rapidly reposition by undulating along the seafloor.
Caution
Handle carefully; like other flatfish it can spook easily and has sharp gill covers. Check local regulations before keeping any flatfish, and avoid if the species is locally protected or uncommon in your area.
Fishing notes
Slow-drift or bottom-fish over sand beside reefs, channels, and drop-offs; keep presentations near the bottom and use light tackle with small hooks. It is not usually a primary gamefish and is often an incidental catch.