D is for Drum

Bars on their heads, stripes on their bodies, and spots on their tails... These are the features of the spotted drum. The stripes and bars are usually black and white, and the spots are white on the black tail fins. Other members of the drum family have black and white stripes, and all have very long dorsal fins. These fish live under ledges and entrances to caves in the more secluded areas of the reef. They are fun to watch, because they usually swim in an elongated circular pattern, and don't venture far from home. They are similar to an expectant father pacing the floor. Back and forth, back and forth. They are found from South Carolina down into the Caribbean and into the Gulf of Mexico. The Spotted Drum is found in relatively shallow water, however, the Jackknife Fish (a member of the drum family) is found a little deeper. While staying close to home during the day, at night they come out to feed. Another family member, the Highhat, sometimes can be seen in small groups or pairs. Next time while diving be sure to check under overhangs and hidey holes for these cute little fish, and if you move slowly you may be able to approach them and get very close. They seem to feel very secure in the protection of the reef, so give it a try. They certainly are unusual and unique fish.

[Argonauta Home] [The Gallery] [The Library] [About Us]

^{Thursday, May 15, 2003
Our privacy statement can be found here.  Please contact with questions or comments about the web site.
Copyright © 1996-2003 Argonauta Productions, Inc.  All rights reserved.
Argonauta® is a registered trademark of Argonauta Productions, Inc.}