Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigtooth croaker (Pentheroscion mbizi) is a saltwater fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 56 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of the deeper continental shelf.
Description
The bigtooth croaker is a silvery croaker of the family Sciaenidae (drums) reaching about 56 cm. The elongate, silvery-grey body has a terminal mouth with strong teeth. Like other drums it can make a drumming sound with muscles against its swim bladder, which plays a role in reproduction. The species forms schools over sand and mud bottoms of the deeper continental shelf along the West African coast. As a predator it hunts, mainly at night, for fish, shrimps and other crustaceans. With its tasty flesh the bigtooth croaker is a valued commercial fish landed by the West African bottom fishery.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigtooth croaker?
The Bigtooth croaker has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Silvery croaker with powerful teeth; makes a drumming sound with its swim bladder and lives over soft bottoms of the deeper shelf.
Where does the Bigtooth croaker live?
The Bigtooth croaker lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of the deeper continental shelf.
How big does the Bigtooth croaker get?
The Bigtooth croaker grows to a maximum of about 56 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Bigtooth croaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigtooth croaker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bigtooth croaker edible?
Yes, the Bigtooth croaker is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigtooth croaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigtooth croaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.