New Jersey Scuba Diving

Drums

Drums are so named for their ability to make drumming sounds with their swim bladder. Actually, many fishes are capable of making sounds, from squeaks to growls, although not all Drums can "drum". Kingfish lack a swim bladder but still vocalize by grinding their pharyngeal (throat) teeth.

Northern Kingfish

Northern Kingfish

Menticirrhus saxatilis

Profile by
Heather Corbett
Assistant Fisheries Biologist

The Northern kingfish, Menticirrhus saxatilis, is popular with many saltwater anglers, and it's no wonder. These fish are known to put up a good fight, and their tasty, white meat is well worth the effort.

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Weakfish

Weakfish

Cynoscion regalis

Profile by John McClain Principal Fisheries Biologist

The Weakfish is a member of the croaker family. The family name is derived from the ability of the males to make a drumming or croaking noise.

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Atlantic Croaker

Atlantic Croaker

Micropogonias undulatus

Profile by John McClain, Principal Fisheries Biologist

The croaker is a member of the Sciaenidae, or drum family, which includes the black drum and weakfish. Their name comes from the sound they can make by vibrating their swim bladders.

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Spot

Spot

Leiostomus xanthurus

Size
to 14"
seldom that big

Habitat
Shallow coastal waters, bays, estuaries.

Description
These diminutive drums form an important fishery, both commercial and recreational.

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Sea Turtles

Diamondback Terrapin

There are few marine reptiles and even fewer in the cold North Atlantic. While it would be possible for a salt-water crocodile to swim up from the Caribbean, there is no record of one ever having done so. Nor are there any of the sea-snakes that are famous in the South Pacific. The only marine reptiles that are encountered in our waters are sea turtles.

The one exception to this is the little Diamondback Terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin. (right) This small turtle ( about 6 inches ) is found only in salt marsh environments. Adults are very strong swimmers and have even been noted in the ocean surf, although I don't think they venture offshore.

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Disclaimer:

I make no claim as to the accuracy, validity, or appropriateness of any information found in this website. I will not be responsible for the consequences of any action that is based upon information found here. Scuba diving is an adventure sport, and as always, you alone are responsible for your own safety and well being.

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