Fin's Fish Guide
The Cassava croaker (Pseudotolithus senegalensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 114 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries.
Description
The cassava croaker is a large croaker of the family Sciaenidae (drums) reaching about 1.1 metres. The elongate, silvery body has a yellowish tinge and a terminal mouth with strong throat teeth. Like other drums it can make a loud drumming sound with muscles against its swim bladder. The species forms schools over sand and mud bottoms of coastal water and estuaries along the West African coast. As a predator it hunts fish, shrimps, crabs and other crustaceans. It is one of the most important commercial fish of the region but, through heavy overfishing, has declined sharply; the IUCN assesses it as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cassava croaker?
The Cassava croaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large, silvery croaker with a yellowish tinge and powerful pharyngeal teeth; produces a loud drumming sound with its swim bladder.
Where does the Cassava croaker live?
The Cassava 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 coastal water and estuaries.
How big does the Cassava croaker get?
The Cassava croaker grows to a maximum of about 114 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Cassava croaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Cassava croaker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cassava croaker edible?
Yes, the Cassava croaker is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudotolithus
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Cassava croaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cassava croaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.