The question of whether a redfish is also a drum frequently arises among individuals interested in marine life and recreational fishing. This common inquiry stems from shared characteristics and sometimes overlapping terminology used to describe these popular aquatic species. Understanding the biological classification and shared traits helps clarify this relationship.
Understanding the Drum Family
“Drum” refers to a diverse group of fish belonging to the biological family Sciaenidae, often called croakers. This family encompasses hundreds of species across many genera, found globally in marine, brackish, and some freshwater environments. A distinguishing characteristic of many Sciaenids is their ability to produce drumming or croaking sounds. They achieve this by vibrating specialized muscles against their swim bladder, which acts as a resonating chamber.
These fish typically have elongated bodies, often silvery or grayish. Their mouths are usually set low, adapted for feeding on bottom organisms. The drum family includes well-known members such as the black drum (Pogonias cromis), spotted seatrout, weakfish, and various species of croakers.
Redfish: A Prominent Drum Species
The redfish, scientifically known as Sciaenops ocellatus, is a species within the Sciaenidae family. It is commonly referred to by several names, including red drum, channel bass, puppy drum, or spottail bass. This fish is recognized for its distinctive copper-red to reddish-bronze coloration on its back, fading to white on its belly. A distinguishing feature is the presence of one or more black spots near its tail.
Red drum are found along the Atlantic coast from Massachusetts to Florida, and throughout the Gulf of Mexico. They are adaptable, thriving in a variety of habitats including coastal waters, estuaries, and tolerating a wide range of salinities and temperatures. Mature red drum can grow quite large, with the record weighing over 94 pounds, though typical three-year-old fish weigh 6 to 8 pounds. Male red drum produce drumming sounds during spawning season to attract females.
Common Names and Clarifying the Connection
The widespread use of “redfish” as a common name often leads to confusion regarding its relationship with the broader “drum” family. However, its scientific classification places Sciaenops ocellatus as a member of the Sciaenidae family, making it a type of drum. Therefore, “red drum” is also an accurate name for this species, highlighting its familial ties.
This fish shares the characteristic sound-producing ability with other drums and can interbreed with closely related species like the black drum, producing hybrids. Regional fishing communities and seafood markets often use “redfish,” while “red drum” is employed in scientific and regulatory contexts. Ultimately, a redfish is a drum, and the two terms refer to the same species, with “drum” denoting its biological family.