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Bank Sea Bass

Centropristis ocyurus

Appearance

bank sea bass
  • Pale olive or brassy-brown on back, fading to a lighter belly
  • Black blotches form dark bars on sides (darker blotch above pectoral fin)
  • Head with wavy blue lines
  • Lips are purplish-blue 
  • Adults have tail with three lobes
  • Top of head (nape) lacks scales

Similar Species: Rock sea bass, C. philadelphica (has spot near middle of dorsal base and head is fully-scaled) 

Size: Up to 12 inches 

Habitat

Coastal waters over hard bottom areas.

Behavior

Feed on small fishes and invertebrates.

Additional Information

State Record: This species is not currently eligible for a state record. 

Fishing Tips and Facts: Bank sea bass start life as females and then change to male after three to four spawning seasons.

Recreational Regulations

 

Image Credit: © Diane Rome Peebles