Tarpon

A tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) is a large, silvery fish found in the Atlantic Ocean and is renowned as a premier game fish. They are known for their incredible fighting ability, acrobatics, and ability to breathe air.

Tarpon are a powerful, streamlined fish with large, iridescent silver scales that give them a shiny, metallic appearance. They have a distinctive, large mouth that points upwards. The most unique physical feature is a modified swim bladder that acts as a lung, allowing them to gulp air at the surface of the water, which helps them survive in low-oxygen environments. They can grow to over 8 feet in length and weigh over 280 pounds.

Tarpon are found in coastal waters, estuaries, and river systems from the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea to the coast of West Africa. They are tolerant of a wide range of salinities, from freshwater to saltwater.

They are opportunistic predators that primarily feed on schooling fish like mullet and sardines, as well as crabs and shrimp. They use their large mouths to gulp down their prey whole.

Tarpon are known for their spectacular fighting behavior when hooked, often leaping high out of the water in a series of powerful jumps. Because of this, they are a highly sought-after sport fish, particularly in Florida and the Caribbean. Most anglers practice catch-and-release to protect their populations.