Red Drum
NameRed Drum
Scientific NameSciaenops ocellatus
Common NamesRed Drum, Redfish, Spottail Bass, Channel Bass
FamilySciaenidae
OriginWestern Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, Coastal waters of Southeastern United States
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)500
Max Size (Inches)60
Water TypeBrackish
Temperature Range (°F)60-85
pH Range7.5-8.5
Compatible SpeciesNone (due to extreme size requirements for adults)
Description
The Red Drum is a large, predatory fish characterized by its coppery-red body and a distinctive black spot at the base of its tail. It is euryhaline, inhabiting estuaries and coastal waters, tolerating a wide range of salinities from brackish to full saltwater. Due to its immense size, it is rarely kept in home aquariums and is primarily a species for public aquariums or aquaculture.
