*Information from FAO Species Identification Guide Western Central Atlantic*
Size
Maximum 90 cm; common to 50 cm.
Habitat, biology, and fisheries
Usually found in shallow coastal waters over sand and sandy mud bottoms; relatively abundant in sounds and along beaches. During summer the fish move to their nursery and feeding grounds in estuaries. Feeds mainly on crustaceans and fishes. Caught mainly with pound nets, gill nets, seines, and bottom trawls; also by anglers. Marketed most fresh, a popular foodfish.
Distribution
Atlantic coast of North America from Nova Scotia to south Florida and western coast of Florida (uncommon).
