Black drum

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Black drum

The Black drum (Pogonias cromis), also known as the drum or drumfish, is a saltwater fish similar to its cousin, the Red drum. It is the only species in the genus Pogonias. Though most specimens are generally found in the 5-30 lb (2–14 kg) range, the black drum is well known as the largest of all the drum species.

Pronunciation

Black drum: /blæk drʌm/

Etymology

The term "Black drum" is derived from the dark coloration of the fish and the drumming or deep croaking noise it makes. The genus name Pogonias comes from the Greek "pogonias" which means "bearded", a reference to the barbels located near its mouth, which resemble a beard.

Description

Black drum are usually black or dark gray in color. Juveniles have four to six dark vertical bars on their sides but these disappear with age. The bellies of older fish are white but coloration of backs and sides can vary greatly. Black drum have large, heavy pharyngeal teeth in the back of their throat that they use to crush mollusk shells and crustaceans.

Habitat

The black drum is a chunky, high-backed fish with many barbels or whiskers under the lower jaw. Younger fish have four or five dark vertical bars on their sides but these disappear with age. The black drum is usually found in or near brackish waters. Larger, older fish are more commonly found in the saltier areas of an estuary (closer to the ocean) near oyster beds or other plentiful food sources.

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