●The ecology and characteristics of the meita flatfish

●What is Meita flatfish

Classification: Fish ＞ Ray-finned fish ＞ Flatfish ＞ Flatfish ＞ Flatfish subfamily ＞ Meita genus (From Japan Oceanographic Data Center)

scientific name：Pleuronichthys cornutus　(Temminck & Schlegel, 1846)

Japanese name: Meitagarei

English name：Ridged-eye flounder、Frog flounder

Also known as: Honmeita, Medaka (Midaka), Medika, Matsuba flounder

The Meitagarei, along with the Nagaremeitagarei, belongs to the Meitagarei genus and is a relatively small flounder. It is widely caught along the coast of Japan and is well-known by that name.

The name “Meitagarei” is thought to be derived from the presence of spines between its slightly protruding eyes, which can cause pain if touched. There is also a theory that the name comes from the plate-like protuberance between its eyes. As an alternative name, it is sometimes called “Medaka” due to its high-set eyes, or “Honmeitagarei” in contrast to the Nagaremeitagarei (Bakemeitagarei).

In different regions, it may be referred to as “Matsubagarei” or “Suzumegarei,” especially in Ishikawa Prefecture.

◆Meita flatfish fishing season and seasons

The spawning season for Meitagarei occurs from late autumn to winter, so its peak season for consumption is before that, from early summer to late autumn. Since Meitagarei is mainly enjoyed for its flesh, it is advisable to avoid consuming it during the spawning period.

However, immature and small-sized Meitagarei, known as “Ko-meita” or “Shin-meita,” which do not carry eggs, are considered delicious during winter when they have accumulated more fat.

Meita flatfish: ecology, characteristics, production areas and seasons

URL: メイタガレイ（目板鰈）＜カレイ類：旬の魚介百科 (foodslink.jp)

yoshijikawano(@uonekosuke) • Instagram写真と動画

We use about 200g size and 3 small sizes.

Trainer in charge: Yoshiji Kawano

English translation by ChatGPT.