Yellowbelly flounder

Latin Name: Rhombosolea leporina

Weight: 0.2–0.6kg

Length: 25–45cm

Family: Yellowbelly flounder belongs to the Pleuronectidae family of right-eyed flounders. It is recognised by its olive-brown upper surface and distinctive yellow underside. Related New Zealand flatfish include greenback flounder and black flounder.

Wild Caught
Farmed

Location

Yellowbelly flounder are found in shallow coastal waters around New Zealand, particularly in northern harbours, estuaries and sheltered muddy bays. They generally inhabit sandy and muddy seabeds in waters less than 50 metres deep.

Sustainability

Flatfish were introduced to New Zealand’s Quota Management System (QMS) in 1986 and are managed as a group rather than as individual species. Stock abundance can vary in response to environmental conditions, and catch limits may be adjusted to reflect these changes. Species-specific catch reporting is encouraged to support ongoing monitoring and sustainable management.

Also see sand flounder.

Fishing Methods

Set Net

Fishing Season

Peak Season

Off Season

Nutrition

Seafood is a highly nutritious food and is a great source of protein. Many species are low in saturated fat and a number of them are a good source of Omega 3.

Did you know?

Like all right-eyed flounders, the yellowbelly flounder begins life with an eye on each side of its head. As it grows, one eye migrates to the other side, allowing the fish to lie flat on the seabed with both eyes facing upwards. New Zealand is also home to other flounder species, including greenback flounder, which has a dark green upper surface, and black flounder, which is darker in colour and commonly found in estuaries and the tidal reaches of rivers.

Cooking Tips

Yellowbelly flounder has delicate, moist white flesh and a mild flavour. It is best cooked simply to preserve its delicate texture and natural sweetness.

Try it:

• Baked
• Grilled
• Barbecued
• Pan-fried

The flesh flakes easily when cooked and pairs well with lemon, butter and fresh herbs.

Yellowbelly flounder

Location

Sustainability

Fishing Methods

Fishing Methods

Fishing Season

Nutrition

Did you know?

Cooking Tips