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Photo of a Spotted Sand Bass

Species profile

Spotted Sand Bass

Paralabrax maculatofasciatus

Bony fishIUCN: Least Concern982 iNat observations

At a glance

Spotted Sand Bass (Paralabrax maculatofasciatus) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species with specific harvest rules tracked in 1 of 66 jurisdictions covered by CatchRules.

Confirmed by 756 research-grade iNaturalist observations, concentrated in California.

Notable details

  • Prefers bays, estuaries, and shallow sandy bottoms rather than open-ocean reefs.
  • Distinguished from relatives by numerous dark spots covering the body and fins.
  • Often found at shallower depths than kelp bass, making it accessible from shore.
  • Range extends from Southern California south through the Gulf of California.
  • Feeds on small fish, shrimp, and crabs in soft-bottom habitats.

Background

The spotted sand bass (Paralabrax maculatofasciatus) is a species of fish in the family Serranidae.

Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Spotted Sand Bass article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.

Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.