Identification:
The body outline of the turbot is almost circular. The upper side lacks scales, but has many bony tubercules. Males tend to be smaller than females.
Breeding:
Breeding occurs in April-August at depths of 10-40 m. Females may each produce over 10 million eggs. The planktonic young move to the bottom at about 4-6 months, to inhabit shallow inshore waters. Turbot reach sexual maturity at about 5 years, when 30-40 cm long.
Habitat:
Turbot generally inhabit waters of 20-80 m, on both sandy and rocky ground.
Food:
Food consists mainly of small fish, such as sandeels, gobies and sprats, but turbot may also take crustaceans and molluscs.
Range:
The turbot has a widespread distribution throughout UK waters.
Additional Notes:
The flesh of the turbot is highly prized, making it a valuable commercial species, both through trawling and aquaculture. |
