Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus)

Description: Last ray of dorsal fin extended into long filament; one dorsal fin; dark blue to green or greenish black, shading into bright silver on the sides; may be brownish gold in estuarine waters; huge scales; mouth large and point upward.

Similar fish: (As juveniles) ladyfish, Elops saurus.

Where found: Primarily Inshore fish, although adult fish spawn Offshore where the ribbon-like larva stage of the fish can be found.

Size: Most angler catches are 40 to 50 pounds. Can reach 200 lbs..

Remarks: Slow grower; matures at 7 to 13 years of age; spawning occurs between May and September; female may lay more than 12 million eggs; can tolerate wide range of salinity; juveniles commonly found in fresh water; can breath air at the surface; feeds mainly on fish and large crustaceans. [back to top]

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