|
Spotted
Seatrout
(Cynoscion
nebulosus)
Description:
Dark gray or green above, with sky-blue tinges shading to
silvery and white below; numerous distinct round black spots
on back, extending to the dorsal fins and tail; black margin
on posterior of tail; no barbels; no scales on the soft dorsal
fin; one or two prominent canine teeth usually present at
tip of upper jaw.
Similar
fish: Other seatrout (silver, etc.).
Where
found: Inshore and/or nearshore over grass, sand, and
sandy mud bottums; move into slow-moving or still, deep waters
in cold weather.
Size:
Common to 4 pounds on west coast, larger on east coast.
Remarks:
Matures during first or second year and spawns Inshore
from March through November; often in association with seagrass
beds; lives mainly in estuaries and moves only short distances;
adults feed mainly on shrimp and small fish; prefers water
temperatures between 58 and 81o F, and may be killed
if trapped in shallow water during cold weather; longevity
8 to 10 years.
[back
to top]
[close
this window]
|
