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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.




Platichthys stellatus
Platichthys stellatus
(Starry Flounder)
Marine Fishes
Native Transplant

Copyright Info
Platichthys stellatus (Pallas, 1788)

Common name: Starry Flounder

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.govITIS logo

Identification: Moyle (1976a); Eschmeyer et al. (1983).

Native Range: Marine; can penetrate freshwater. Japan to Bering Sea and Arctic Alaska, and to Santa Barbara in southern California (Eschmeyer et al. 1983).


Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Nonindigenous Occurrences:

Table 1. States with nonindigenous occurrences, the earliest and latest observations in each state, and the tally and names of HUCs with observations†. Names and dates are hyperlinked to their relevant specimen records. The list of references for all nonindigenous occurrences of Platichthys stellatus are found here.

StateFirst ObservedLast ObservedTotal HUCs with observations†HUCs with observations†
CA197619761Middle San Joaquin-Lower Chowchilla

Table last updated 12/26/2024

† Populations may not be currently present.


Means of Introduction: Gained access to these areas via the California Aqueduct (Moyle 1976a).

Status: Collected in California.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: No known voucher specimens of introduced inland population.

References: (click for full references)

Eschmeyer, W. N., E. S. Herald, and H. Hamann. 1983. A field guide to Pacific Coast fishes of North America. Peterson Field Guide Series. Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston, MA.

Moyle, P. B. 1976a. Inland fishes of California. University of California Press, Berkeley, CA.

Other Resources:
California Fish Species - University of California Davis

FishBase Summary

Author: Pam Fuller, and Matt Neilson

Revision Date: 5/10/2019

Peer Review Date: 8/29/2001

Citation Information:
Pam Fuller, and Matt Neilson, 2024, Platichthys stellatus (Pallas, 1788): U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=842, Revision Date: 5/10/2019, Peer Review Date: 8/29/2001, Access Date: 12/26/2024

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.

Disclaimer:

The data represented on this site vary in accuracy, scale, completeness, extent of coverage and origin. It is the user's responsibility to use these data consistent with their intended purpose and within stated limitations. We highly recommend reviewing metadata files prior to interpreting these data.

Citation information: U.S. Geological Survey. [2024]. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database. Gainesville, Florida. Accessed [12/26/2024].

Contact us if you are using data from this site for a publication to make sure the data are being used appropriately and for potential co-authorship if warranted.

For general information and questions about the database, contact Wesley Daniel. For problems and technical issues, contact Matthew Neilson.