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UNDERWATER GUIDE TO MARINE LIFE 



Fig. 121. Spotted kelp hass. 



Fig. 122. Black sea hass. 



Similar Species: There are eight species of this genus, all of which are of the 

 eastern Pacific. Most are spotted as shown in figure 121. 



BLACK SEA BASS: Centwpristes striatiis 



Size: Large at 18 inches. Lip to 22 inches. 



Weight: Averages 1 to 2 pounds. Large at 4 pounds. Lip to 8 pounds. 



Distribution: Cape Ann to north Florida. Most common from Cape Cod to 

 Cape Hatteras. 



Identification: The color is dark gray with blotchy markings and light spots 

 on the scales. The top ray of the tail fin is elongated to form a filament. 



Hahits: This is a voracious but sluggish bottom fish most common around 

 wrecks, pilings, or rocks at a depth of about 100 feet. It eats a wide \'ariet\' 

 of fishes, crustaceans, and squids. In habits it much resembles the tautog but 

 is found in deeper waters and has a very different profile. 



Similar Species: The Gulf sea bass or tally-wag, Centropristes ocynrus, looks 

 like a small black sea bass, reaching a length of only about a foot. It is a deep- 

 water form found in the Gulf of Mexico. 



