Fin's Fish Guide
The Pacific drum (Larimus pacificus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Description
The Pacific drum is a croaker from the eastern Pacific, off the coast of Central and South America. The species grows to about 32 cm and has a deep, silvery body with an obliquely upturned mouth. Like other croakers it makes drumming sounds with its swim bladder. It schools over sand and mud bottoms of shallow coastal water and hunts shrimp, small crustaceans and fish. It is a local food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific drum?
The Pacific drum has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Obliquely upturned mouth; drumming, schooling croaker
Where does the Pacific drum live?
The Pacific drum lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Pacific drum get?
The Pacific drum grows to a maximum of about 32 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Pacific drum dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific drum 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 Pacific drum edible?
Yes, the Pacific drum is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Larimus
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Pacific drum?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific drum is one of 12,519 species in the app.