Introduction
The Slender Sole, scientifically known as “Lyopsetta exilis,” is a species of flatfish in the family Pleuronectidae. Derived from ‘slender’ which translates to ‘narrow’ in English, and ‘sole’, a derived name for a ‘flat’ fish, the Slender Sole gets its name from its unique physical characteristics.
Conservation Status
Current Status
The Slender Sole is currently not a subject of immense concern to conservationists and is not listed under any categories of threat by IUCN. However, like other marine species, the Slender Sole is subject to threats from environmental change and human activities.
Conservation efforts
While there are no targeted conservation efforts for the Slender Sole, the species benefits from wider marine preservation efforts.
Statistics
| Characteristic | Average | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 15 cm | 10-20 cm |
| Weight | Not specified | Not specified |
| Average Lifespan | 9 Years | – |
Distribution
Regions/Countries
Slender Sole can be found in the North Pacific, from the Gulf of Alaska to Baja California, with some concentration in the Bering Sea.
Migration Patterns
Although specific migration patterns of the Slender Sole are unknown, due to the seasonal nature of fishing, some form of temperature- and food-driven migration is expected.
Habitats
Water Type
Slender Soles thrive in saltwater.
Depth Range
They live on sandy or muddy sediments on the bottom of the ocean at depths from 18 to 1280 m.
Temperature Range
Favoring cooler waters, they can be found at a temperature range from 3-5 °C.
When and Where to See
Seasonal patterns
While specific seasonal patterns are not well-known, commercial fishing of Slender Soles are most robust during the summer months, suggesting a higher level of activity at this time.
Time of Day
The Slender Sole, like many bottom-dwelling sole species, is a nocturnal feeder and hence, is likely to be most active during the night.
Best Fishing Locations
As the Slender Sole is predominantly found in the North Pacific, places like the Gulf of Alaska and Baja California have proven to be prime fishing locations. Commercially, they are most frequently caught in the Bering Sea.
How to Catch
Preferred Bait or Lures
As bottom feeders, Slender Soles are likely to be attracted to baits that mimic their natural prey – small fish, crustaceans, and worms.
Fishing Techniques
Bottom fishing and trawling are the most effective fishing techniques for this species.
Best Time of Day or Season for Fishing
Given the Slender Sole’s nocturnal nature, the best time to fish is likely during the night. Seasonally, summer months have proven most fruitful.
Identification Guide
Physical Characteristics
The Slender Sole is cream-colored on the bottom and gray to brown on top, with a characteristic slender body shape.
Comparison with Similar Species
The Slender Sole is commonly mistaken for the more popularly known Dover sole, but can be differentiated by slight variations in shape and coloring.
Culinary
How to Cook
Given the size of the Slender Sole, it’s often prepared whole, either pan-fried or grilled.
Taste Profile
The Slender Sole yields a tender, mild-flavored meat that’s well suited to subtle seasonings and sauces.
Nutritional Information
Like other fish species, Slender Sole is a low-fat, high-protein food source that provides omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins.
Recipes
Fried Slender Sole with lemon and parsley, and Grilled Slender Sole with herb butter are popular preparations for this fish.
Additional Information
Behavior
No specific behaviors unique to the Slender Sole are currently documented.
Predators and Threats
Natural predators of the Slender Sole are larger fish species and marine mammals. The most significant human-induced threat to the Slender Sole is overfishing, particularly as bycatch.
Cultural/ Historical Significance
While no specific cultural or historical significance is directly attached to the Slender Sole, the species does hold social and economic importance in regions where it’s extensively fished.
References and Further Reading
[Encyclopedia of Life – Lyopsetta exilis](http://eol.org/pages/212700/overview “Encyclopedia of Life – Lyopsetta exilis”) (open in new tab)
[FishBase – Lyopsetta exilis](http://www.fishbase.se/summary/Lyopsetta-exilis.html “FishBase – Lyopsetta exilis”) (open in new tab)
[NOAA Fisheries – Slender Sole](https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/skates-and-soles “NOAA Fisheries – Slender Sole”) (open in new tab)