Tarpon Snook

Family Centropomidae, SNOOKS
Centropomus pectinatus

Description: only snook with 7 anal fin rays (others have 6); lower jaw curves upward; compressed body; prominent black lateral line extends through tail; tips of pelvic fin reach beyond anus.

Similar Fish: other Centropomus .

Where found: INSHORE in south Florida; frequently in fresh water.

Size: usually less than 1 pound (12 inches).

*Florida Record: n/a

Remarks: maximum size of 16 to 18 inches; feeds on small fish and larger crustaceans; young are nurtured along mangrove shorelines; rare on Florida's west coast.

*The Florida records quoted are from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and are not necessarily the most current ones. The records are provided as only as a benchmark.