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621 Featured Specimen
Sheepshead

Details

Sheepshead

Archosargus probatocephalus

Size
25–91 cm · 0.5–9.8 kg
Diet
Carnivore
Activity
Diurnal
Sociality
Loose group
Lifespan

A sparid of Atlantic and Gulf coasts, marked by black bars and strong teeth that crush shellfish and crustaceans.

Range

Habitat range map
Native range Occasional / Transient
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Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)

Details

Habitat

Occurs from the U.S. Atlantic coast into the Gulf of Mexico around estuaries, oyster reefs, rocks, jetties, and piers, often entering brackish water.

Appearance

The body is silvery gray with several bold black vertical bars. Incisor-like front teeth and molars crush hard-shelled prey.

Behavior

Individuals or small groups patrol structures and forage where oysters, barnacles, and crabs are abundant.

Feeding

It eats oysters, barnacles, crabs, shrimp, and mollusks, using powerful jaws and teeth to break shells.

Reproduction

Spawning occurs mainly in spring in coastal waters. Larvae drift before juveniles grow in estuaries and shallows.

Notes

Sheepshead is a popular sport fish, famous for its teeth and close association with reef and pier communities.