- Back is bluish-green, fading to silvery sides and belly
- Sides with silvery-yellow spots, some forming broken lines
- Yellowish stripe on side extends from pectoral fin to caudal fin
- Bluish-black blotch on front of first dorsal fin
- Lateral line slopes gently from behind the gill cover to the tail
Similar Species: Spanish mackerel, S. maculatus (lack yellowish stripe on sides); and king mackerel, S. cavalla (lateral line drops sharply below second dorsal fin)
Size: Up to 36 inches
Habitat & Range
Coastal waters, especially over coral reefs and other structure, occurring mainly in south Florida.
Life History
Unlike other mackerels, cero mackerels do not stray far from south Florida waters. They spawn offhshore in midsummer and feed on small fish and squid.
Frequently Asked Questions
State Record
17 lb 2 oz, caught near Islamorada
