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Atlantic Croaker

Micropogonias undulatus
Managed by: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Regions
Florida
Protected status
None
Also known as
—

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Size
Up to 20 inches (4 pounds)
Similar species
Spot, L. xanthurus (caudal fin is forked and preopercle is smooth) Size: Up to 20 inches (4 pounds)
Appearance
  • Body is silvery-gray or bronze, iridescent on head
  • Indistinct wavy bars or lines on upper sides
  • Strongly serrated preopercle (bone on cheek)
  • Small barbels on lower jaw
Habitat
Generally found north of Tampa Bay on the west coast and north of Cape Canaveral on the east coast. Young found in estuaries and older fish (2 to 3 years) inhabit deep offshore waters during the winter months and move into bays and estuaries during the spring, summer and fall.
Behavior
Become bronze or yellow in color during spawning. Spawning occurs offshore in fall. Feeds on fishes and invertebrates.
Additional information
State Record:Recreational RegulationsSee a full list of our Social Media accountsSubscribe:AboutThe CommissionCommission MeetingsWildlife AlertCalendar of EventsOutlook E-mailLimited English Proficiency PlanOffice of Supplier DevelopmentAmericans with DisabilitiesEEO/AAPrivacy StatementSitemap2025 Agency Regulatory Plan
Sources
Image credit: © Diane Rome Peebles