What Kind Of Fish Is Flounder From The Little Mermaid

Ever wondered about Flounder, Ariel's best pal in The Little Mermaid? He's more than just a cute, stripey sidekick. He's a fish! But what kind of fish, exactly?

Well, the name "Flounder" itself is a bit of a hint. There is a type of fish called a flounder! But here's the fun part: our Flounder doesn't really look much like a real-life flounder. Real flounders are flat. Super flat. They have both eyes on the same side of their head! Seriously!

So, What's the Deal?

Disney animators took some creative liberties. Shocking, right? They wanted a character that was expressive and cuddly. A flat, sideways-eyed fish might not have been the best choice for that. Imagine trying to give a high-five to a fish lying flat on the ocean floor! Awkward!

Our Flounder is bright yellow and blue. He's got big, expressive eyes. And he swims upright! He's basically the opposite of a real flounder. This is all part of what makes him so endearing. He's cute! He's funny! He's a fish that's... well, not really a flounder at all!

Instead of a true flounder, our Flounder seems to be inspired by a tropical fish. Think angelfish or guppies. Those bright colors and that overall shape? It's way closer than anything you'd find on the bottom of the sea!

Why Does It Matter?

Okay, so he's not a scientifically accurate flounder. Who cares? He's a beloved character! His design choices make him so much more appealing to audiences. Think about it: Flounder's bright colors and worried expressions add so much to the movie. He embodies anxiety. He's the friend who is always slightly terrified but always there for you anyway.

Plus, the fact that he isn't a real flounder is kind of a funny little secret. It's like a tiny inside joke that Disney plays on us. We know he's not "real," but we love him anyway! It speaks to the artistry and the decisions that are made when characters are designed. No one is trying to trick us, but they did want to create a character that would work well on the big screen.

Imagine a movie where Flounder was a perfectly accurate depiction of a flatfish. Would we love him as much? Maybe not! He probably wouldn't have the same personality. He wouldn't have those big, scared eyes that make us want to hug him.

Flounder's Lasting Appeal

The Little Mermaid is a classic for a reason. It's got amazing songs. It's got a compelling story. And it's got unforgettable characters. Flounder is a big part of that. He's the loyal friend we all wish we had. Even if he's a bit of a scaredy-cat.

So, the next time you watch The Little Mermaid, take a closer look at Flounder. Appreciate his vibrant colors. Admire his unwavering loyalty. And remember that he's not just a fish. He's a symbol of friendship, courage, and the magic of Disney animation.

And if you are ever on Jeopardy and the question is "What type of fish is Flounder?", you can confidently say "He's technically named after a Flounder, but looks more like a tropical fish!"

He is a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are a little bit… fishy! (Pun intended!) Think of all of the scenes with Flounder! From his hiding spots in Ariel's grotto to his interactions with Sebastian, he brings a youthful, fun energy to the movie.

Flounder is a great example of how Disney can make a character that is both memorable and iconic. So, what are you waiting for? Go and give it a watch! You won't regret it!