plaice

Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) is a common flatfish native to the north-eastern Atlantic. It inhabits the continental shelf and favors sandy or muddy bottoms in coastal and nearshore waters, though it can be found at greater depths in some regions. The upper surface is olive-brown with small orange or red spots; the underside is pale. Like other flatfishes, the eyes lie on the upper side when mature, and individuals rest on their side on the seabed.

Plaice typically reach lengths of 25 to 40 cm, with older fish occasionally exceeding 50 cm. They have a rounded to oval body shape, a small mouth, and a slight concave tail. Coloration and spotting provide camouflage against the bottom.

Biology and ecology: Plaice are relatively long-lived and reach sexual maturity after a few years. Spawning usually occurs in spring and early summer in coastal waters; eggs and larvae are pelagic before settling to the bottom. Diet consists mainly of small crustaceans, polychaete worms, mollusks, and occasionally small fish. They play a role as both predator and prey within coastal ecosystems, and they migrate seasonally in response to temperature and habitat conditions.

Distribution and fisheries: The species occurs across the north-eastern Atlantic, including the North Sea, western Baltic, and along European coasts from the Arctic to the Bay of Biscay. Plaice is a key target for commercial fleets and is captured mainly by trawls, with other nets and gears used in some areas. Catches are marketed fresh or frozen, often as fillets or whole fish.

Conservation and management: Regional stock levels vary, and management measures such as catch quotas, minimum landing sizes, and seasonal closures are used in many areas to maintain sustainable populations.