Spot (fish)

Spot (fish)

The Spot (Leiostomus xanthurus) is a small short-lived fish commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean's estuaries and coastal waters. It is a member of the drum family, which includes species like the Atlantic croaker and red drum.

Description

The Spot fish is characterized by its distinctive spot located near its tail, which is the origin of its common name. It has a compressed body, a slightly pointed head, and a small mouth. The color of the Spot fish varies from silver to a yellowish brown, with a white belly.

Distribution and Habitat

Spot fish are native to the Atlantic coast of North America, ranging from the Gulf of Maine to the Gulf of Mexico. They inhabit brackish and saltwater environments, particularly in estuaries and near-shore areas.

Diet

The diet of the Spot fish primarily consists of small invertebrates, including worms, crustaceans, and mollusks. They also feed on detritus and phytoplankton.

Life Cycle

Spot fish are seasonal spawners, with the majority of spawning occurring in the fall. After hatching, the larvae drift into estuaries where they grow and mature. The average lifespan of a Spot fish is 1 to 2 years.

Economic Importance

Spot fish are a popular target for recreational fishing due to their abundance and ease of capture. They are also commercially harvested and sold fresh, frozen, or used as bait.

Conservation Status

The Spot fish is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, like all marine species, it is affected by overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution.

See Also

• Drum (fish)
• Atlantic croaker
• Red drum

References

• FishBase
• NOAA Fisheries
• IUCN Red List

External Links

• FishBase - Spot (Leiostomus xanthurus)
• NOAA Fisheries - Spot