Species Profiles. Life Histories and Environmental Requirements of Coastal Fishes and Invertebrates (South Florida). SNOOK,
Abstract
Species profiles are literature summaries on the taxonomy, morphology, range, life history, and environmental requirements of coastal finfishes and shellfishes. They are designed to assist in environmental impact assessment. The snook (Centropomus undecimalis) is of regional importance in the recreational fishery of south Florida, where its abundance centers in mangrove-fringed coastal waters. Commercial fishing is no longer allowed, and closed sport seasons have been enacted recently. Serious population declines have been caused by degradation of habitat and fishing pressure. Snook exhibit a classic estuarine-dependent life cycle, with spawning in nearshore salt waters in warmer months and juvenile development in brackish inshore tidal streams, salt marshes, and grass beds. Juveniles remain in estuaries for the first year of life, whereas adults range from freshwater to oceanic habitats. Snook are carnivorous, non-migratory except for localized spawning-associated movements, and typically achieve sexual maturity in the second and third years of life (at 40-50 cm fork length). This species is susceptible to cold, with 15.6 C regarded as a lower limiting temperature. Keywords: Ecology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA180392
Entities
People
- Mark Collins
- William Seaman Jr.
Organizations
- University of Florida