(©Carol & Mark Archambault)
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Atlantic Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) They are characterized by large heads and mouths that contain small, sharp teeth. Wavy vertical bands that do not extend below the midline of their sides run the length of the body. Their coloring is steely gray to greenish blue and they range in size from 14-18" (35-45 cm). They are considered an important commercial fish. Their diet consists of squid, herring, silversides and large copepods. They are often found in schools of thousands of individuals. Their habitat is in the open waters, they are occasionally found in harbors or estuaries, but never fresh water. They appear in Narragansett Bay in spring and summer. |