Fin's Fish Guide
The Knobbed porgy (Calamus nodosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 54 cm.
Description
The knobbed porgy is a sea bream from the western Atlantic, ranging from North Carolina to southern Florida and the entire Gulf of Mexico. It grows to about 54 cm and can live seventeen years. It has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body with a conspicuous knob on the snout, from which it takes its name. The fish lives over hard bottoms and reefs between about 7 and 90 metres depth and feeds on hard-shelled invertebrates such as molluscs, crabs and echinoderms. It is a valued game and food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Knobbed porgy?
The Knobbed porgy has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Striking knob on the snout; eats hard-shelled invertebrates
Where does the Knobbed porgy live?
The Knobbed porgy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Knobbed porgy get?
The Knobbed porgy grows to a maximum of about 54 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Knobbed porgy dangerous to humans?
No, the Knobbed porgy 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 Knobbed porgy edible?
Yes, the Knobbed porgy is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Calamus
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Knobbed porgy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Knobbed porgy is one of 12,519 species in the app.