Cero Mackerel: Scomberomorous regalis

Appearance:

• Color of back iridescent bluish green
• Sides silvery with yellow spots forming lines above and below a bronze stripe from pectoral fin to base of tail
• Front of the first dorsal fin is bluish black
• Lateral line curves gradually to base of caudal fin

Habitat:

Cero mackerel are nearshore and offshore fish occurring mainly in south Florida.  The are frequently found over coral reefs and wrecks.

Behavior:

Unlike other mackerels, cero mackerels do not stray far from south Florida waters.  They spawn offhshore in midsummer and feed on small fish and squid.

State Record:

17 lb 2 oz, caught near Islamorada

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Similar Fish: Spanish mackerel, S. maculatus; king mackerel, S. cavalla (only the cero has the yellow-brown stripes from the pectoral to caudal fin).

Additional Information:

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles