Fin's Fish Guide
The Black croaker (Cheilotrema saturnum) is a saltwater fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The black croaker is a croaker from the eastern Pacific, from California to Baja California. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a stocky, dark body. Like other croakers it can produce a drumming sound with its swim bladder. As a bottom-dweller it stays near the bottom in caves and crevices of exposed coasts and bays to about 46 metres depth, where it hunts mainly crabs and other crustaceans. It can live to twenty years. Owing to insufficient data the IUCN lists the species as Data Deficient (DD).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black croaker?
The Black croaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Makes a drumming sound with the swim bladder; shelters in caves and crevices
Where does the Black croaker live?
The Black croaker lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Black croaker get?
The Black croaker grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Black croaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Black croaker is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Black croaker edible?
Yes, the Black croaker is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Black croaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black croaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cheilotrema
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Black croaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black croaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.