Distribution of paralichthid flounders (bothidae:Paralichthys) in North Carolina estuaries

Abstract

Summer flounder,Paralichthys dentatus, and southern flouder,P. lethostigma, extensively use Pamilco Sound and adjacent estuaries as nursery areas. Young gulf flounder,P. albiguta, are rarely found. Flounders remain in the estuaries for the first 18–20 months of their life before moving into ocean waters. Benthic substrate and salinity are the two most important factors governing distribution. Southern flounder are most abundant in areas of low salinity and clayey silt or organic rich mud bottoms. Summer flounder are most abundant in areas of moderate to high salinities and sandy bottom.