Distinguishing Characteristics |
Body elongate, head large with bony ridges and spines, width between eyes large; color dark with greenish-gray mottling on back, some black markings or dark and light spots; black oblique bar below soft dorsal fin; belly white; 1st dorsal with black spot; pectoral fin large, wing-like, lower 3 rays free, finger-like; pectoral fins dark with lighter bands, no spots, sometimes with yellow edges, white edge on underside of pectoral fin. |
Similar Species |
Dark pectoral fin with lighter banding with no spots and the oblique bar under soft dorsal fin distinguish this species from other searobins; flying gurnards are similar to searobins but their pectoral fins do not have free rays. |
Habitat |
Gulf and bay |
Maximum Size |
35 cm (14 in) |
Fin Element Counts |
D. X+11-12; A. 11-12 (explain) |
Other Common Names |
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Previous Scientific Names |
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Comments |
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State size/bag limits |
None; Check for state record. |