Sciaenidae

Micropogonias undulatus RR 072120 0655 (50142583921)

7080 aquaimages

3726 aquaimages

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Corvina (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 11 July 1865)

Sciaenidae, commonly known as the drum or croaker family, encompasses a diverse group of fish found in both freshwater and marine environments around the globe. This family is characterized by their unique ability to produce sound, which is where the common names "drum" and "croaker" originate, referring to the drumming or croaking sounds they make. These sounds are produced by the muscles attached to the swim bladder, which act as a resonating chamber. The Sciaenidae family includes over 270 species spread across about 70 genera, showcasing a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and habitats.

Description

Members of the Sciaenidae family can vary greatly in size, from small species measuring just a few centimeters to the larger ones like the Atlantic croaker (Micropogonias undulatus) and the Red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus), which can grow up to 1 meter in length. They typically have elongated bodies, with most species possessing a silvery hue and often displaying various patterns of bars, spots, or stripes. Their dorsal fins are usually divided into two parts, with the first consisting of spines and the second of soft rays.

Habitat and Distribution

Sciaenidae species are predominantly found in marine environments, although some species inhabit brackish or fresh waters. They are distributed widely across the world's oceans, with a significant number found in the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and the Indian Ocean. These fish prefer coastal areas, estuaries, and river mouths, where they can often be found in muddy or sandy bottoms. Some species are known to migrate between freshwater and saltwater environments during different stages of their life cycles.

Diet

The diet of Sciaenidae species primarily consists of small fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates. They are opportunistic feeders, with their feeding habits largely influenced by their size, habitat, and the availability of prey. Juvenile fish tend to feed on zooplankton and small invertebrates, while adults target larger prey.

Reproduction

Sciaenidae are generally known for their seasonal spawning events, which often coincide with specific environmental conditions such as temperature changes or lunar cycles. Fertilization is external, with females releasing eggs into the water column to be fertilized by males. The sound production plays a crucial role in mating rituals and territorial behaviors during the spawning season.

Conservation

While many species within the Sciaenidae family are not currently considered endangered, some are facing threats from overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution. Conservation efforts are in place for certain species, focusing on habitat restoration, fishing regulations, and research on population dynamics to ensure sustainable management practices.

Economic Importance

Several species within the Sciaenidae family are of significant economic importance to both commercial and recreational fisheries. The Red drum and Black drum (Pogonias cromis), for example, are highly sought after by anglers for their fighting ability and quality as table fish. In addition, many species are harvested for their flesh, which is considered a delicacy in various cuisines around the world.

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