Red Drum - Sciaenops ocellatus
*Information from FAO Species Identification Guide Western Central Atlantic*
Size
Maximum 160 cm; common to 100 cm.
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Habitat, biology, and fisheries
Found over sand and sandy mud bottoms in coastal waters, young often enter estuaries. Abundant in surf zone south of Cape Hateras and Texas coast; apparently undergoing seasonal migrations. Feeds mainly on crustaceans, molluscs, and fishes. Caught mainly with haul seines, pound nets, and gill nets; also in large quantities by anglers.
Aquaculture of the species has been well established. Marketed mostly fresh, a highly esteemed foodfish and popular gourmet dish (blackened red drum in New Orleans).
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Distribution
Atlantic coast from Long Island to Florida, Gulf of Mexico from west coast of Florida
to at least Laguna Madre, Mexico.
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