Fin's Fish Guide
The Common yellowtail croaker (Umbrina xanti) is a saltwater fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Eastern Pacific; sandy bottoms of coastal waters of Central and South America.
Description
The polla drum is a croaker of the drum family (Sciaenidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, silvery-grey body with a small barbel on the chin, characteristic of many drums. It lives over sandy bottoms in coastal waters; juveniles also stay in littoral pools. The fish feeds on fishes, crustaceans and bivalves it locates on the bottom. Like other drums it can make drumming sounds with its swim bladder. The polla drum is regularly eaten and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common yellowtail croaker?
The Common yellowtail croaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small chin barbel; makes drumming sounds with the swim bladder, typical of drums.
Where does the Common yellowtail croaker live?
The Common yellowtail croaker lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; sandy bottoms of coastal waters of Central and South America.
How big does the Common yellowtail croaker get?
The Common yellowtail croaker grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 22 cm.
Is the Common yellowtail croaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Common yellowtail croaker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common yellowtail croaker edible?
Yes, the Common yellowtail croaker is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Umbrina
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Common yellowtail croaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common yellowtail croaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.