Body oval and flat, but thicker than in most other flatfishes. Mouth large with strong teeth; maxillary extends well beyond hind edge of lower eye; both eyes on left or right side; upper eye lying immediately below dorsal edge. Gillrakers not developed. Dorsal fin origin well posterior to eyes; anterior fin rays spinous. Lateral line almost straight. Colour usually brown-grey, sometimes with 4 broad, dark crossbars. Dorsal, anal and caudal fin tips black. Blind side occasionally partially coloured.