0. back

Sanddabs, Pacific

(U.S. Wild-caught)

Rating:
Like other Pacific flatfish, sanddabs are a "Good Alternative" to those from the Atlantic, where historical overfishing has reduced populations. Most sanddabs are caught using habitat damaging bottom trawls and are ranked as a "Good Alternative."

Market Names:
Megrim, Mottled Sanddabs, Soft Flounder

Consumer Notes:
Over 13 species of flatfish are regularly caught in the Pacific. Common market names include sole, sanddab, turbot, plaice, fluke, flounder and halibut. Pacific flatfish, like their Atlantic cousins, are known as hirame when prepared for sushi.

Summary:
Sanddabs are a small-sized flatfish native to the West Coast of North America and are a favorite West Coast seafood.

Sanddabs are caught by trawling on soft seafloor habitats along the continental shelf. Although bottom trawling on sandy or muddy seafloor is less damaging to essential fish habitat than trawling over rocky habitats, it does affect habitat and reduce species diversity. Other fishing methods, such as Scottish seine and hook-and-line, are used by some fishermen and have minimal impact on the seafloor.

0. back