Moonlighter (fish)

The Moonlighter (Hypsopsetta guttulata) is a flatfish belonging to the family Pleuronectidae, commonly found along the Pacific coast of North America. Its range extends from Baja California, Mexico, to British Columbia, Canada. The Moonlighter is a righteye flounder, meaning that both eyes are typically located on the right side of its body.

Distinguishing features of the Moonlighter include its relatively small size compared to other flatfish, typically reaching lengths of up to 12 inches (30 cm). The eyed side is usually a sandy or brownish color, often with scattered darker spots and blotches, providing camouflage on the seafloor. A key characteristic is the presence of small, bony tubercles (small, rounded projections) on the eyed side, giving it a rough texture. The blind side (the side without eyes) is typically white or pale.

Moonlighters inhabit shallow coastal waters, often found in sandy or muddy habitats near shorelines, bays, and estuaries. They are benthic feeders, consuming small invertebrates such as crustaceans, worms, and mollusks. They typically bury themselves partially in the sediment to ambush prey.

The Moonlighter is of minor commercial importance as a food fish, although they may be caught incidentally in other fisheries. They are sometimes targeted by recreational anglers. The species is not currently considered threatened or endangered, but monitoring of populations is ongoing to ensure their continued sustainability.