Other names: -
The striped searobin, Prionotus evolans, is a bottom-dwelling fish native to the western Atlantic Ocean. Known for its distinctively large pectoral fins, which resemble wings, this species is found in sandy and muddy coastal waters. It uses its "fingers," specialized rays of its pectoral fins, to probe the seabed for small invertebrates, which make up the bulk of its diet. Striped searobins are occasionally caught as bycatch but are generally not targeted by commercial fisheries.
Length
~30" (max 45)
Weight
~1" (max 2)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
8-24° F
Depth
9-180 ft
Blood worms
Clams
Crabs
Mussels
Shrimp
Squid-
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Prefers sandy and muddy substrates in coastal waters, often found in shallow areas near the shore
Typically inhabits regions with soft bottoms, where it can easily hunt for food
Feeds primarily on bottom-dwelling invertebrates like crabs, shrimp, and small mollusks
Uses its unique pectoral fins to "walk" along the sea floor and to detect prey hidden in the substrate
Spawning occurs in the warmer months, with eggs released into the water column
Larvae are pelagic, meaning they drift with the currents before settling on the ocean floor as juveniles
Juveniles tend to inhabit shallower waters before moving to deeper areas as they mature
Little is known about the specific mating behaviors, but the species likely follows a seasonal reproductive cycle
