SWORDSPINE SNOOK – Centropomus ensiferus
March 9th, 2006 by Gillwetter PressFamily Centropomidae, SNOOKS
Description: smallest of the snooks; profile slightly concave; prominent lateral line outlined in black (not solid), extends through caudal fin; color yellowgreen to brown-green above, silvery below; giant second anal spine, hence the name; largest scales of all snook.
Similar fish: other Centropomus.
Where found: occurs in INSHORE estuarine habitats from south Florida as far north on east coast as St. Lucie River.
Size: usually less than 1 pound (12 inches).
Remarks: full-grown adults are less than 12 inches long; mangrove shoreline habitats serve as nursery areas for young; rare on Florida’s west coast; prefers only slightly brackish or fresh water.
Posted in Fish ID | Comments Off 
Log in Fish ID – Species Glossary