Turbot - Scophthalmus maximus

Distribution Th e turbot, Scophthalmus maximus, also called Psetta maxima (Scophthalmidae, Pleuronectiformes), is naturally distributed in European waters, from Northeast Atlantic to the Arctic Circle (30o to 70oN; 23oW42oE). It occurs in the Baltic and in the Mediterranean, as well as in the Black Sea, where a subspecies Psetta maxima maeotica has been described (1). It also exists in the Southeast Pacifi c Ocean (Chile) and in China, where it has been introduced for farming. Wild populations inhabit along all European coasts to North West Africa (Morocco), where it is also farmed. Clear geographical discontinuities have not been reported between populations. Th ough this species is not considered endangered, declines in wild catches (2) and some genetic evidence (3) suggest the existence of historical population reductions for European turbot.