ARCTIC FLOUNDER Meaning and
Definition
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Arctic flounder, scientifically known as Pleuronectes glacialis, is a species of flatfish primarily found in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. It belongs to the family Pleuronectidae, commonly referred to as righteye flounders due to their unique morphology, where both eyes are located on one side of the head, usually the right side.
Arctic flounders are known for their flat and asymmetrical body shape, allowing them to camouflage effectively on the ocean floor. They possess both eyes on the right side, which adapts to their lifestyle of lying flat on the sea bottom. The upper side, or the eyed side, is typically brownish green, blending with the surroundings, while the underside is white to provide effective camouflage from potential predators.
These flounders inhabit the coastal waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas, including the Bering Sea and the northern Atlantic. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms and are often seen in shallow waters, although they can also be found at depths of up to 200 meters.
Arctic flounders feed on various small marine organisms, including crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. They have a unique hunting technique where they lie motionless on the ocean floor and ambush their prey, striking with a rapid upward movement.
Due to their adaptation to the extreme cold waters of the Arctic, Arctic flounders have become an essential component of the region's marine ecosystems and play a vital role in the food chain. Nonetheless, they are also commercially valuable and are targeted by fisheries for their delicate, flavorful meat, making them a sought-after fish species in some countries.
Etymology of ARCTIC FLOUNDER
The term "Arctic flounder" is not commonly used to refer to a specific species of flounder. Instead, it seems to be an amalgamation of two separate words: "Arctic" and "flounder".
1. Arctic: The word "Arctic" originates from the Latin word "Arcticus", which in turn comes from the Greek word "Arktikos". The Greek word refers to the northern constellation "Arktos" or the Great Bear (Ursa Major). The region around the North Pole, known as the Arctic, gets its name due to its proximity to the pole and the presence of this constellation.
2. Flounder: The word "flounder" comes from the Old English word "flondra", which represents a flatfish. It is related to the Middle Dutch word "vlundere" and Middle Low German word "vlunder".
