Decapterus punctatus (Cuvier, 1829)

Scientific Naming and Body Shape

The round scad, scientifically named Decapterus punctatus (Cuvier, 1829), is a cigar-shaped fish.

Body Coloration

It has greenish coloration on its upper body and white coloration on its underside, and a small black spot is usually present on its opercle.

Fin Structure

This species has nine spines and 30 to 34 soft rays on its dorsal fin, and three spines and 26 to 29 soft rays on its anal fin.

Body Markings

Round scad often have a yellow stripe that runs from the head to the caudal peduncle.

Recorded Length

The longest recorded round scad measured 30 centimeters in length, which is very close to the estimated average adult length of 12 inches, or 30.48 centimeters.

Recorded Weight

The heaviest recorded specimen is reported to have weighed 300 grams.

Overall Distribution Range

Round scad is only found in the Atlantic Ocean.

Western Atlantic Range

In the western Atlantic, its range extends from Nova Scotia in the north to Rio de Janeiro in the south, and it includes the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

Eastern Atlantic Range

In the eastern Atlantic, its range extends from Morocco in the north to South Africa in the south, and it includes the islands of Madeira, the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, Ascension Island, and St. Helena.

Habitat

This fish inhabits the ocean's neritic zone, and is also common near beaches.

Shoaling Behavior

It is known to form large shoals that gather near the seabed.

Diet

Round scad feeds mostly on copepods, but it also feeds on pteropods, ostracods, and gastropod larvae.

Spawning Habitat

Round scad spawn throughout the year in offshore waters.

Egg Characteristics

Their eggs float in pelagic waters before hatching.