Fin's Fish Guide
The Bashaw (Micropogonias furnieri) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Western Atlantic; mud and sand bottoms of coastal waters and estuaries.
Description
The whitemouth croaker is a croaker (Sciaenidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has an elongate, silvery body with a whitish mouth cavity, to which the name refers, and small barbels on the chin. Like other croakers it makes drumming sounds with its swim bladder. It inhabits mud and sand bottoms of coastal waters and estuaries, which serve as nursery and feeding grounds. As a bottom predator it feeds on worms, crustaceans, molluscs and small fishes. It is a very important commercial fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bashaw?
The Bashaw has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Whitish mouth cavity and chin barbels; drums with the swim bladder; very important commercial fish.
Where does the Bashaw live?
The Bashaw lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; mud and sand bottoms of coastal waters and estuaries.
How big does the Bashaw get?
The Bashaw grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Bashaw dangerous to humans?
No, the Bashaw is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bashaw edible?
Yes, the Bashaw is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Micropogonias
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Bashaw?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bashaw is one of 12,519 species in the app.