Unicorn sole
📖 Overview
Unicorn sole (Aesopia cornuta) is a ray-finned fish of the family Soleidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in reef-associated environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 25 cm. It occurs at depths between 8 and 100 metres. With a trophic level of 3.6, it is a mid-level predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 69 - 79; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 59 - 66; Vertebrae: 46. Greyish or brown, with 15-16 dark bars edged with black (the first 3 bars on head); caudal fin blackish with pale spots . : short and / or deep.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Unicorn sole is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Unicorn sole is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Unicorn sole is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 8 - 100 m . Tropical West Pacific: Red Sea, Mozambique, South Africa, India and Japan.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Aesopia Cornuta is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked — Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.3 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 74 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Unicorn sole has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coryphaesopia cornuta | Kaup | 1858 | Synonym |
| Coryphaesopia cornuta barnardi | Chabanaud | 1934 | Synonym |
| Synaptura cornuta | Kaup | 1858 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) — 5 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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