Seriola zonata
Size
to 24"
Habitat
Coastal surface waters, congregating around any floating objects
Description
Juveniles ( shown, up to 12" ) are attractively patterned with six or seven dark bars; these are lost in adults, which are also much slimmer. Schools of small Rudderfish can often be found around boats, and even around divers hanging on the anchor line. Pilotfish are similar, but larger and retain dark bars throughout life.
Omega Protein with fishing partner Ocean Harvesters have a long history of collaborating with government agencies and non-profit organizations to offer retired vessels to artificial reef programs. The vessels that have been submerged act as a habitat for marine life, promoting biodiversity and creating recreational fishing and diving opportunities. The former vessels that have been sunk include the F/V Reedville off of the coast of Delaware in 2020, the F/V Barataria Bay off the coast of Mississippi in 2015, the F/V Great Wicomico in the Gulf of Mexico in 2009, and the F/V von Rosenberg off the coast of Mississippi in 2000.
More: Omega Protein Artificial Reefs ...
