Odontoscion dentex (Cuvier, 1830)
Reef croaker
Odontoscion dentex
photo by Wirtz, P.

Family:  Sciaenidae (Drums or croakers)
Max. size:  30 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 13.7 g
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 30 m
Distribution:  Western Atlantic: Florida, USA and Cuba to Brazil. Absent in the Bahamas.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 11-14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 22-25. No barbels; brownish silver with dark dots on scales; a large black spot at base and axil of pectoral fins (Ref. 13442).
Biology:  Inhabits caves and crevices or among corals (Ref. 9710). Solitary or in groups (Ref. 9710). Feeds at night mainly on shrimps and small fishes (Ref. 9710), and their larvae (Ref. 13442). Secretive and wary (Ref. 9710).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 23 January 2020 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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