Streamlined and cylindrical body with truncate to s-shaped tail. Deeply notched dorsal fin, first fin is spiny and second fin is soft. Single barbel on chin. If present, bands run diagonally alongside, colors fade to white at belly.
Average Maximum Size:
46 cm (18 in)
Adults Distinguishing Characteristics:
The Southern Kingfish differs from the closely related Northern Kingfish in that it lacks narrow banded body patterns and a horizontal stripe along the midline towards the tail. The first spine of dorsal fin is proportionally long.
Juveniles Distinguishing Characteristics:
Juvenile southern kingfish are highly pigmented and dark, with a single barbel present on its chin that will distinguish it from gobies.
Range:
Massachusetts to Gulf of Mexico
Habitat:
Found in coastal waters with sandy mud bottoms or hard sandy bottoms. Juveniles inhabit estuaries.
