|
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.
|
|
|
INSHORE and /or NEARSHORE over grass, sand, and sandy mud
bottoms; move into shallow waters in cold weather. |
Common to 4 pounds on west coast, larger on east coast. |
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 81° F, and may be killed if trapped
in shallow water during cold weather; longevity 8 to 10 years. |
