Pigfish (Orthopristis chrysoptera)

Latin name

Orthopristis chrysoptera

Other names

Spanish: corocoro burro.Identification

Identification

The fish has long anal fins corresponding in shape and size to the soft dorsal fin. The head is sloping and pointed, the snout is almost pig-like, and the lips are thin. Against a background of bluish-gray color, there are brassy spots in the form of indistinct lines, which are horizontal below the lateral line, but obliquely extend upward and backward above the lateral line. These oblique marks are also present on the cheeks. The fins are yellow-bronze, with dusky margins.

Distribution

The fish inhabit the western Atlantic Ocean, from Massachusetts and Bermuda to the Gulf of Mexico. They are most abundant from the Chesapeake Bay southward and do not inhabit tropical waters.

Habitat

Occurs in coastal waters on sandy and muddy bottoms.

Size

Maximum length and weight is 18 inches and 2 pounds, but is usually 7 to 9 inches long and weighs no more than half a pound. They live for 3 years.

Life history and Behavior

These fish have a predominantly nocturnal lifestyle. Spawning takes place in the coastal zone in the spring and early summer, before the fish move into the estuaries.

Food and feeding habits

Fish are bottom feeders, feeding on crustaceans, worms and small fish.

Reproduction

No information