The Banded drum (Pogonias cromis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 170 cm.
Description
The black drum (Pogonias cromis) is a large drum of the family Sciaenidae from the western Atlantic. The species has a deep, robust, silvery-grey body; juveniles bear dark cross-bars and there are numerous barbels under the chin. It can reach about 1.7 metres and become very heavy. It lives over sand and mud bottoms in coastal waters, especially near large river mouths; juveniles enter estuaries. With powerful pharyngeal jaws it crushes mollusks such as oysters and mussels, and eats crustaceans and fishes. Like other drums it makes a deep drumming sound with its swim bladder.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded drum?
The Banded drum has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Banded drum live?
The Banded drum lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Banded drum get?
The Banded drum grows to a maximum of about 170 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Banded drum dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded drum is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded drum edible?
Yes, the Banded drum is commonly eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Sciaenidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.