Turbot
About
The turbot is one of the Mediterranean's most impressive flatfish, making it a prized encounter for divers exploring Costa del Sol waters. This diamond-shaped giant can reach up to 100 centimeters in length, with its most distinctive feature being its asymmetrical body where both eyes migrate to the left side during development. The turbot's mottled brown and grey skin provides exceptional camouflage against sandy and rocky bottoms, often making it nearly invisible until it moves. These masters of disguise inhabit depths between 5 to 70 meters throughout the Mediterranean, preferring sandy areas near rocky reefs where they can easily bury themselves. Turbots are ambush predators, remaining motionless for hours before striking at passing fish, crustaceans, and mollusks with lightning speed. The best conditions for spotting turbots are during calm weather with good visibility, particularly in early morning or late afternoon when they're most active. Night dives also offer excellent opportunities as they venture out to hunt. Divers treasure turbot encounters because of their impressive size, prehistoric appearance, and the challenge of spotting these well-camouflaged bottom dwellers. Their curious nature often allows for close observation once discovered.
Spotted at These Dive Sites
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