Deep and wide compressed body, truncate tail. Blunt snout. Dark vertical bars run down sides of body. Deeply single dorsal fin; first dorsal fin smaller and more compact compared to the larger sickle shaped (falcate) second dorsal fin. May appear to have two dorsal fins. Dark borders along edge of fins.
Average Maximum Size:
51 cm (20 in)
Adults Distinguishing Characteristics:
NA
Juveniles Distinguishing Characteristics:
Juveniles appear brown/tan with dark bars and spots
Range:
Massachusetts to Brazil
Habitat:
Found in coastal waters around mangroves, reefs, wrecks, and pilings in both rocky and sandy areas. Juveniles inhabit estuaries and shallow coastal waters.
