Orthopristis chrysoptera, Family: Haemulidae, GRUNTS

Common Name(s): Grunt, Orange Grunt, Piggy, Piggy Perch

Grows to about 13-15". Perch-like shape, body silvery-gray, often with a bluish cast; many coppery to yellowish spots or dashes and other small markings; mouth small, ending below front nostril. Black bands, similar to the ones on a sheepshead or puppy drum fish. Pretty fish.

Found in back bays and banks, grassy flats, around bars and in channels. Ranges All Florida coasts and the Bahamas!! Not commonly seen north of the Carolinas, must have come up the Gulf Stream this year with the warmer water.

Related Links:

• http://www.fishing-boating.com/baitprofiles/pigfish.htm
• http://www.floridasportsman.com/features/050750/
• http://www.ccfhr.noaa.gov/stressors/landuse/juv_reeffish.html