Identification
A small, round flatfish of 10 to 20 cm with a nearly circular body. Dark brown upper side with irregular narrow dark crossbands. Right-eyed. Very small mouth. Notable absence of pectoral fins.
Ecology
Native to the North American Atlantic coast, living in estuaries, river mouths, and coastal waters. Tolerates both fresh and salt water. Feeds on worms and small invertebrates.
In the Netherlands
An exotic species introduced via ballast water. Observations are rare. The name 'hogchoker' refers to its use as pig feed in colonial America.
