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Florida Pompano

Trachinotus carolinus
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 24 inches (8 pounds)
Similar species
Permit, T. falcatus (dorsal fin begins over the anal fin and grow much larger than Florida pompano) Size: Up to 24 inches (8 pounds)
Appearance
  • Dark greenish-gray on back, shading to silver sides
  • Yellowish coloration on belly
  • Fish found in dark waters have yellow on throat, pelvic fins and anal fin
  • Dorsal fin begins in front of anal fin
  • Dorsal, anal and caudal fins are short and upright
  • Forehead slopes gently backward
  • Deep, compressed body with a small mouth
  • Caudal fin with a wider fork than permit
Habitat
Inshore and nearshore waters, especially along sandy beaches, oyster bars and over seagrass beds, often in turbid water. Found in water as deep as 130 feet.
Behavior
Spawn offshore March to September. Feeds on mollusks and crustaceans, especially sand fleas. Local movements are influenced by the tide, and seasonal movements are influenced by temperature.
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