Mackerel Scad

Mackerel Scad

Decapterus macarellus

Size: to 12"

Habitat: coastal waters

Notes: Scads are diminutive Jacks. Late in the season huge schools of 3-4" babies may be found in the rivers and swarming around the inshore reefs. Note the detached rays on the dorsal and anal fins near the tail, forming a finlet like a mackerel. They are mainly harvested for bait but are also sometimes eaten dried or salted.

Mackerel Scad
Herb Segars Photography

Cownose Ray

Rhinoptera bonasus

Size: to 3 ft across

Habitat: Coastal

Notes:
Unlike the other fishes on this page, this is a free-swimming ray, often found near shore in large schools. They generally arrive en masse late in the season and are otherwise uncommon.

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