The Southern kingcroaker (Menticirrhus americanus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The southern kingcroaker is a slender drum of the family Sciaenidae reaching about 50 cm. The silvery-grey body has faint oblique bars, an inferior mouth and a short, stiff chin barbel with which the fish probes the bottom. Unlike many drums this species makes little sound. It lives on sand and mud bottoms of surf, shallow coastal water and estuaries in the western Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico and tolerates brackish water. On the bottom it searches with its barbel for worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. Because of its tasty flesh and its presence just behind the surf it is a prized target for beach and surf anglers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Southern kingcroaker?
The Southern kingcroaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Southern kingcroaker live?
The Southern kingcroaker lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Southern kingcroaker get?
The Southern kingcroaker grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Southern kingcroaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Southern kingcroaker is harmless to humans.
Is the Southern kingcroaker edible?
Yes, the Southern kingcroaker is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Menticirrhus
More from the family Sciaenidae
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