Greater Amberjack

Greater Amberjack
Name: Greater Amberjack
Scientific Name: Seriola dumerili
Family: Jacks
Taxonomic: Carangidae
ID Group: Silvery Fishes
Size: 2 - 4 ft.
Depth Range: Various depths (0 – 130 ft.)
Sightings: Not usually seen

The Greater Amberjack has a large, elongated, narrow body. It has a distinctive dark diagonal line that extends from its upper jaw, through the eye, and toward the first dorsal fin. Its body is typically bluish-gray to olive-brown on the back, fading to silvery white on the belly. The fins are usually dusky or sometimes slightly yellow, and the dorsal fin is fairly short.

This Jack is the largest member of the Jack family, often growing heavier than its relatives. It is a fast and powerful swimmer, typically seen in open water, but it also visits the reef and sandy areas, either alone or in small groups. It is an opportunistic predator, feeding on fish, squid, and crustaceans. It is very curious and may approach quite close.