Fin's Fish Guide
The Gulf kingcroaker (Menticirrhus littoralis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 48 cm.
Western Atlantic; coastal waters and surf zone over sand and muddy bottoms.
Description
The Gulf kingcroaker is a drum of the family Sciaenidae from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 48 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with an inferior mouth and a short chin barbel. It occurs mainly in coastal waters over sand and mud bottoms; juveniles are abundant in the surf zone along beaches. As a bottom predator it feeds on small crustaceans, worms and shellfish picked from the sand. Like other drums it can make drumming sounds with its swim bladder. The Gulf kingcroaker is a valued sport and food fish and harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gulf kingcroaker?
The Gulf kingcroaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Short chin barbel and an inferior mouth; juveniles numerous in the surf zone.
Where does the Gulf kingcroaker live?
The Gulf kingcroaker lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; coastal waters and surf zone over sand and muddy bottoms.
How big does the Gulf kingcroaker get?
The Gulf kingcroaker grows to a maximum of about 48 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Gulf kingcroaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Gulf kingcroaker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Gulf kingcroaker edible?
Yes, the Gulf kingcroaker is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Menticirrhus
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Gulf kingcroaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gulf kingcroaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.