Fin's Fish Guide
The Paita kingcroaker (Menticirrhus paitensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 40 cm.
North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and others
Description
The Paita kingcroaker is a croaker (Sciaenidae) from coastal waters of the southeast Pacific, off Peru and Chile. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, silver-grey body with an inferior mouth and a short, stout barbel under the chin. As a bottom-oriented fish it roots in sand and mud bottoms of the surf and bays for worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. It is a valued angling and food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Paita kingcroaker?
The Paita kingcroaker has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Paita kingcroaker live?
The Paita kingcroaker lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and others
How big does the Paita kingcroaker get?
The Paita kingcroaker grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Paita kingcroaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Paita kingcroaker 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.
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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 Paita kingcroaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Paita kingcroaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.