SWORDSPINE SNOOK – Centropomus ensiferus
Family 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.
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