Wide-Eyed Flounder
Bothus podas
Characteristics
Scientific name
Size
Depth range
Nutrition
Behave
Frequency in Cyprus
Protection status
Native/Immigrant
Bothus podas
Usually 15-25 cm in length, with a maximum size of around 45 cm.
Depth Range: 1-400 m, most commonly found between 5 and 100 m.
Predatory species that feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and other bottom-dwelling invertebrates.
A well-camouflaged bottom dweller, most often observed alone on rocky reefs and sandy seabeds around Cyprus.
Commonly seen around Cyprus dive sites, but often missed because of its effective camouflage.
Conservation Status: Not currently threatened (IUCN: no significant conservation concerns currently identified).
Native Mediterranean species.
The Wide-eyed Flounder (Bothus podas) is a distinctive flatfish of the Mediterranean Sea, commonly found on sandy bottoms and mixed seabed habitats. Its asymmetrical eye placement and exceptional camouflage allow it to blend almost perfectly into the surrounding substrate. Divers around Cyprus often do not notice this species until it suddenly darts from its hiding place and glides gracefully across the seafloor.
Where to Find in Cyprus: Dive Sites & Habitat
The Wide-eyed Flounder (Bothus podas) is widely distributed throughout the Mediterranean Sea and is regularly encountered in the coastal waters of Cyprus. It favours sandy seabeds, seagrass meadows, and transitional zones where sand meets rock. Because of its habitat preferences, this species can be found at many dive sites, particularly along shallow coastal areas with extensive sandy bottoms.
Excellent opportunities to observe the Wide-eyed Flounder exist at dive sites featuring seagrass beds and open sandy areas, habitats that are common around Protaras, Pernera, and Ayia Napa. However, despite being relatively widespread, the species is often overlooked by divers. During daylight hours, it frequently remains partially buried in the sand or lies motionless on the seabed, relying on its exceptional camouflage to avoid detection.
The species can be observed year-round and forms a natural part of the fish fauna of the eastern Mediterranean, including the waters surrounding Cyprus.
Behavior & Key Features Underwater
The Wide-eyed Flounder spends most of its life resting directly on the seabed. Its body coloration can adapt to match the surrounding substrate, providing outstanding camouflage from both predators and prey. A characteristic behaviour is its sudden burst of movement when approached by a diver, before settling back into the sand a few metres away. Like other flatfish, both eyes are positioned on the same side of the body and can move independently, allowing the fish to keep a close watch on its surroundings. Juveniles are often found in very shallow coastal waters, while larger adults also occur at greater depths around Cyprus and throughout the Mediterranean.
Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is the Wide-eyed Flounder rarely seen?
Because it is exceptionally well camouflaged and often waits for prey while partially buried in the sand, making it difficult for divers to spot.
Is the Wide-eyed Flounder a flatfish?
Yes. Like other flatfish species, both eyes are located on the same side of the body, an adaptation to its bottom-dwelling lifestyle.
Where can you see the Wide-eyed Flounder in Cyprus?
It is most commonly found on sandy seabeds, within seagrass meadows, and in transitional areas between sand and rocky reefs in shallow coastal waters around Cyprus.
Written by
Sophia