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Round Scad

Decapterus punctatus
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 12 inches; common to 7 inches
Similar species
Bigeye scad, S. crumenophthalmus (lacks finlets) Size: Up to 12 inches; common to 7 inches
Appearance
  • Greenish-blue fading to silver on sides and a white belly
  • Long, cigar-shaped body
  • Small black spots along lateral line
  • Detached dorsal and anal finlets
  • Narrow yellow stripe from head to tail
Habitat
Found mid-water or near the bottom, juveniles sometimes at surface.
Behavior
Feed on plankton. Spawn offshore throughout the year.
Additional information
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Sources
Image credit: © Diane Rome Peebles