Fin's Fish Guide
The Longspine porgy (Stenotomus caprinus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Western Atlantic, mainly the Gulf of Mexico and the southeast coast of the USA, on soft bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The longspine porgy (Stenotomus caprinus) is a deep-bodied porgy of the family Sparidae from the western Atlantic, especially the Gulf of Mexico. It reaches about 20-30 cm and has a silvery, laterally compressed body with stout, sometimes elongated dorsal spines. Living in schools on soft bottoms of the continental shelf, it feeds on small bottom animals such as worms, crustaceans and molluscs. Very common, it is a major bycatch of shrimp trawling but is little eaten itself. It is harmless to people.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longspine porgy?
The Longspine porgy has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep-bodied, silvery sea bream with stout dorsal fin spines; a common bycatch of shrimp fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico.
Where does the Longspine porgy live?
The Longspine porgy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic, mainly the Gulf of Mexico and the southeast coast of the USA, on soft bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Longspine porgy get?
The Longspine porgy grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Longspine porgy dangerous to humans?
No, the Longspine 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 Longspine porgy edible?
The Longspine porgy is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stenotomus
More from the family Sparidae
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