Fin's Fish Guide
The Golden croaker (Micropogonias altipinnis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Description
The tallfin croaker is a croaker (Sciaenidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has an elongate, silvery body with a high front dorsal fin and small barbels on the chin. Like other croakers it makes drumming sounds with its swim bladder. It inhabits sandy shores, bays, estuaries and lagoons. As a bottom predator it feeds on shrimps, small fishes, molluscs and other crustaceans. It is a food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Golden croaker?
The Golden croaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Tall first dorsal fin; produces drumming sounds with its swim bladder; bottom predator of sandy coasts.
Where does the Golden croaker live?
The Golden croaker lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Pacific; sandy coasts, bays and estuaries.
How big does the Golden croaker get?
The Golden croaker grows to a maximum of about 90 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Golden croaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Golden croaker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Golden croaker edible?
Yes, the Golden croaker is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Golden croaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Golden croaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.