Early life history of the black drum Pogonias cromis (Pisces: Sciaenidae) in Tampa Bay, Florida

Abstract

Spawning took place in the lower bay or nearshore Gulf waters from November through May, with most spawning occurring in March. Spawning peaks were seemingly influenced by tidal period. Most spawning occurred during rising temperatures. Juveniles 30-60 mm SL were abundant in May and June in rivers and tidal creeks with low to moderate salinities and unvegetated mud bottoms. At lengths >100 mm SL, juveniles began dispersing throughout the bay. Larvae had a growth rate of 0.2-0.3 mm/day, whereas juveniles 35-150 mm grew 0.8-0.9 mm/day. Some 48% of larval stomachs examined were empty; stomachs with food contained primarily copepods. Mollusks were the major food group in juvenile black drum stomachs; small (<60 mm) juveniles consumed mainly bivalve siphon tips. whereas larger (>75 mm) juveniles consumed more fish, bivalves, and gastropods. -from Authors