The Scaly croaker (Nibea squamosa) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 65 cm.
Description
The Scaly croaker is a croaker (Sciaenidae) from coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, silver-grey body with an inferior mouth and stout ear-stones; like other croakers it makes a drumming sound with its swim bladder. As a bottom-oriented fish it searches over sand and mud bottoms for worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scaly croaker?
The Scaly croaker has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Scaly croaker live?
The Scaly croaker lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea
How big does the Scaly croaker get?
The Scaly croaker grows to a maximum of about 65 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Scaly croaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Scaly croaker 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 Scaly croaker edible?
Yes, the Scaly croaker is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nibea
More from the family Sciaenidae

Want the complete picture on the Scaly croaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Scaly croaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.