Pompano are a sought-after species, popular among anglers and valued in seafood markets. Their size varies, influenced by environmental and biological factors. Understanding these elements and different pompano species clarifies how large these fish can grow.
Common Pompano Dimensions
The Florida Pompano (Trachinotus carolinus) is the most common species. It measures less than 17 inches (43 cm) and weighs under 3 pounds (1.4 kg) when caught. Larger individuals can reach 25-26 inches (63.5-66 cm) and 8-9 pounds (3.6-4.1 kg).
The average size for this species ranges from 12 to 22 inches. For aquaculture, they are harvested at 9.8-14.2 inches (24.9-30.1 cm) and 1.0-1.5 pounds (453.6-680.4 g). Juvenile Florida Pompano grow 0.8 to 1.2 inches per month.
Elements Affecting Pompano Growth
Several factors influence pompano growth and size. Age plays a role; Florida Pompano live for 3 to 4 years, though some reach 6 to 9 years. Sexual maturity is reached around one year of age, at approximately 8 inches. Their diet, primarily mollusks, crustaceans (coquina clams, mole crabs, shrimp, sand fleas), and small fish, provides necessary nutrients.
Water temperature impacts pompano development and distribution. Florida Pompano prefer warmer waters, between 70 and 89°F (21-32°C), influencing their seasonal migrations. Optimal temperatures for juvenile growth are 77-86°F (25-30°C). Habitat quality also contributes, as these coastal fish thrive in shallow, sandy areas like beaches, bays, and estuaries.
Distinguishing Other Pompano Species
The term “pompano” encompasses several related species, some growing larger than the Florida Pompano.
Permit
The Permit (Trachinotus falcatus), a close relative, can reach 48 inches (122 cm) and 79 pounds (36 kg). While commonly caught at 15 to 20 pounds, Permit often average between 6 and 40 pounds. Distinguishing features include elongated, scythe-shaped dorsal and anal fins, a deeply forked tail, and a tall, thin, laterally compressed body. Unlike Florida Pompano, Permit often display an orange or yellowish-orange patch on their chin, fins, or belly.
African Pompano
The African Pompano (Alectis ciliaris) can reach lengths of up to 150 cm (4.9 feet). The maximum recorded weight is around 22.9 kg (50 pounds 8 ounces). Adults weigh between 10 and 30 pounds, with larger specimens reaching up to 50 pounds.
African Pompano have a deep, laterally compressed body and a silvery-metallic blue coloration. Juveniles have five chevron-shaped dark bars and very long, filamentous dorsal and anal fin tips that shorten as the fish matures. Despite appearing scaleless, their skin contains minute, embedded scales.