Definition of Archosargus probatocephalus

See also: California sheephead (Semicossyphus pulcher).

See also: Freshwater drum (Aplodinotus grunniens).

The sheepshead, Archosargus probatocephalus, is a marine fish that grows to 30 in (760 mm), but are common from 5 to 8 in. They are deep and compressed in body shape with 5 to 6 dark bars on the side of the body over a gray background. It is found in muddy, shallow water, often over oyster beds, around piers or rock jetties. Along with the other Porgy, Sheepshead are related to the North American Panfish. They range up and down the Western Atlantic seaboard (including North and South America), and the Gulf of Mexico, but are absent from the Caribbean. Its flesh is considered to have excellent taste and consistency. Other names include freshwater drum and silver bass.