The Sheepshead Porgy – Calamus penna is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Sparidae, commonly known as porgies. This species is found in the Western Atlantic Ocean, inhabiting a diverse range of environments.
Description & Characteristics
The Sheepshead Porgy – Calamus penna is characterized by its elongated, compressed body with a deep caudal peduncle. Its dorsal fin features 12 spines and 11-13 soft rays, while its anal fin boasts 3 spines and 11-13 soft rays. The fish’s coloration is a distinctive feature, with a pale gray to silvery body, a dark gray to black lateral stripe, and a yellow to orange hue on the snout and chin. They can reach a maximum size of 46.0 cm, exhibiting a robust and powerful physique.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Sheepshead Porgy – Calamus penna is a common resident of the western Atlantic Ocean. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from inshore reefs to the continental shelf, preferring depths ranging from 3.0 to 87.0 meters. This species can be found in diverse marine zones, from the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the shores of the northeastern United States.
Taxonomy
The Sheepshead Porgy – Calamus penna belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Sparidae. Within this taxonomic framework, the species stands as a distinct entity with its unique characteristics and ecological role.
Feeding
The Sheepshead Porgy – Calamus penna is an opportunistic omnivore, exhibiting a diverse diet that includes a wide range of organisms. This species is known to consume clams, crabs, crustaceans, invertebrates, krill, rock shrimps, shrimps, sponges, and zoobenthos, showcasing its adaptability to various food sources.
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