The lookdown (Selene vomer) is yet another example of the rich biodiversity we can find along the Georgia coast. While they are found across both northern and southern hemispheres, locally, lookdowns are yearlong inhabitants of our estuaries and shallow nearshore waters. Characterized by their silver and iridescent color along with elongated dorsal and anal fins, this shiny member of the Jack family (Carangidae) rarely exceeds 12 inches in length. The lookdown has what’s known as a laterally compressed (flattened from side to side) body. This extreme deep body shape comes in particular handy when needing to make sudden turns or maneuvering around structures to avoid predators or search for prey. Equally distinguishable is the lookdown’s severely sloped forehead, and downward-orientated eyes, which contribute to the fish’s namesake. They also have a relatively large protruding lower jaw that aids in dining on a wide variety of prey such as shrimp, crabs, worms and even other fish! Juvenile lookdowns, which is what we often encounter on our EFMC trawls can be easily distinguished from adults by their dramatically elongated dorsal fin spines and pelvic fins. They also have faint vertical bars that fade as the fish gets older.

 Fun Fact: Lookdowns make grunting noises with their swim bladder and teeth when stressed.