Fin's Fish Guide
The Striped bass (Morone saxatilis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Moronidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Western Atlantic along the east coast of North America, in coastal water and estuaries; anadromous, spawns in fresh river water.
Description
The striped bass is a robust, silvery bass of the family Moronidae reaching about 2 metres. The streamlined body bears seven or eight unbroken dark lengthwise stripes along the silvery flank. The species is anadromous: adults live in coastal water and estuaries along the east coast of North America and run up the rivers in spring to spawn in fresh water. In fast schools it hunts schooling fish, shrimps, crabs and other crustaceans. It is one of the most popular saltwater sport fish of North America, is fished commercially and farmed, and has also been introduced elsewhere. With its firm, white flesh it is a highly prized food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Striped bass?
The Striped bass has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Large, silvery bass with seven or eight unbroken dark longitudinal stripes across the flank; a powerful, anadromous migratory fish.
Where does the Striped bass live?
The Striped bass lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic along the east coast of North America, in coastal water and estuaries; anadromous, spawns in fresh river water.
How big does the Striped bass get?
The Striped bass grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 120 cm.
Is the Striped bass dangerous to humans?
No, the Striped bass is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Striped bass edible?
Yes, the Striped bass is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Morone
More from the family Moronidae
Want the complete picture on the Striped bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Striped bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.