This flatfish is oval in shape and is usually right-eyed. Most adults are between 25-30cm in length however it can be up to 50cm. The upper surface is usually dull brown in colour with reddish-brown blotches and the underside is white. Often the colour is camouflaged with the seabed. There are rows of bony tubercles along the lateral line and the bases of the dorsal and anal fins. The flounder is similar is size and shape to the plaice and dab however bony tubercles along the lateral line and at the bases of the dorsal and anal fins are distinctive of the flounder.