Serra Spanish mackerel
📖 Overview
Does not migrate extensively, although some seasonal movement appears to occur off Trinidad. Feeds largely on fishes, with smaller quantities of penaeid shrimps and loliginid cephalopods. Most of the catch is consumed fresh, but in Brazil some is salted and some has been canned. Also utilized smoked and frozen; used for ceviche .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 17 - 19; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15 - 19; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 16 - 20; Vertebrae: 47 - 49. Snout much shorter than rest of the head. Interpelvic process short and bifid. Lateral line gradually curving down toward caudal peduncle. Body entirely covered with small scales, no anterior corselet developed. Pelvic fins relatively short. Intestine with 2 folds and 3 limbs. Swim bladder absent. Sides silvery with several rows of round yellowish bronze spots. First dorsal fin black.: fusiform / normal; Cross section: oval.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Serra Spanish mackerel is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Serra Spanish mackerel is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; oceanodromous . Tropical; 21°N - 36°S, 90°W - 29°W Central and South America from Belize to Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Serra Spanish mackerel is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 20.4 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 117 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Serra Spanish mackerel has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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