Fin's Fish Guide
The Pacific smalleye croaker (Nebris occidentalis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The Pacific smalleye croaker is a drum (Sciaenidae) from the eastern Pacific, from Mexico to Peru. The species reaches about 60 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with conspicuously small eyes, an adaptation to its turbid habitat. It occurs in the surf zone of coastal waters and in estuaries and coastal lagoons. The diet consists of shrimps and small fishes. Like other drums it can produce grunting sounds with its swim bladder. The species is occasionally offered in markets.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific smalleye croaker?
The Pacific smalleye croaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Very small eyes; inhabitant of turbid surf zones and estuaries.
Where does the Pacific smalleye croaker live?
The Pacific smalleye croaker lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Pacific, from Mexico to Peru.
How big does the Pacific smalleye croaker get?
The Pacific smalleye croaker grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Pacific smalleye croaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific smalleye croaker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pacific smalleye croaker edible?
The Pacific smalleye croaker is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nebris
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Pacific smalleye croaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific smalleye croaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.