Fin's Fish Guide
The Barbel drum (Ctenosciaena gracilicirrhus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The barbel drum is a drum (Sciaenidae) from the western Atlantic, from the Caribbean to southern Brazil. The species reaches about 21 cm and has a silvery body and a short barbel beneath the chin, with which it probes the bottom. It inhabits coastal waters, usually over sandy-mud bottoms, at depths to about 130 m. The diet consists mainly of shrimps and other small bottom invertebrates. Despite its modest size the species is locally an important food fish caught in coastal fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barbel drum?
The Barbel drum has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Short chin barbel for probing the bottom; locally important food fish.
Where does the Barbel drum live?
The Barbel drum lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic, from the Caribbean to southern Brazil.
How big does the Barbel drum get?
The Barbel drum grows to a maximum of about 21 cm. On average the species is around 16 cm.
Is the Barbel drum dangerous to humans?
No, the Barbel drum is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barbel drum edible?
Yes, the Barbel drum is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenosciaena
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Barbel drum?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barbel drum is one of 12,519 species in the app.