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Southern Kingfish

Menticirrhus americanus
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 19 inches
Similar species
Gulf kingfish; M. littoralis (caudal fin has blackish tip); and northern kingfish, M. saxatilis (distinct "V" mark above pectoral fins) Size: Up to 19 inches
Appearance
  • Back is grayish-brown, fading to silvery sides and belly
  • 7 to 8 indistinct diagonal dark blotches on sides
  • Scales on underside are nearly the same size as body scales
  • Barbel on lower jaw
Habitat
Coastal waters. Common in surf zones along beaches. Also in shallow coastal waters with a muddy-sand bottom as well as high salinity bays and estuaries along the coast.
Behavior
Thought to prefer high wave action areas such as sand bars where the crashing waves dislodge and suspend small crabs and other small crustaceans. Feeds on fishes and invertebrates.
Additional information
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Sources
Image credit: © Diane Rome Peebles