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Tomtate

Haemulon aurolineatum
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 10 inches (1 pound)
Similar species
Other grunt species Size: Up to 10 inches (1 pound)
Appearance
  • Gray to tan on back, fading to a white or silvery belly
  • Yellow-brown stripe on side, extends from head to tail
  • Black spot at base of tail (faded in larger individuals)
  • Mouth lined with bright orange
Habitat
Coastal waters
Behavior
Feed on invertebrates, plankton and algae. Audible grunting is produced by grinding of the pharyngeal teeth, with air bladder acting as amplifier.
Additional information
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Sources
Image credit: © Diane Rome Peebles