The shoal bass (Micropterus cataractae) is a species of freshwater fish in the sunfish family (Centrarchidae) of order Perciformes. One of the black basses, it is native to subtropical waters in Florida and Georgia. It is also occasionally found in Alabama where it has been declared an endangered species and cannot legally be kept if caught by fishermen. Of typical size for a black bass, M. cataractae reaches a maximum recorded length of 61 cm (24 in) and a maximum published weight of 8 pounds and 12 ounces.
Only described for the first time in 1999, the shoal bass remains poorly understood by ichthyologists. However, that is changing due to studies by the Georgia fisheries department and Dr. Steve Sammons of Auburn University. The shoal bass is often confused with the redeye bass, due to its red-tinted eyes.
Read more about Shoal Bass: Description, Range and Habitat, Spawning Habits, Feeding Habits and Growth, Sporting Quality
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