What kind of Fish is this? Netted in PCB

[DothanReefer]

Hello fellow reefers,
My daughter and I netted this pair of fish right in the surf on the beach in Santa Rosa Beach FL (Panama City Beach). Any suggestions?? Wondering if we take them home or release?

 

[EZKLR]

juvenile spadefish I think

 

[Spare time]

I'd release it

 

[DothanReefer]

Caught another bigger one. The big one can change color. He/she goes from black/gold specks to black/silver stripes when I put my hand in there...this is crazy. Wish I knew what they are?! I'm going to lookup spadefish.

 

[Spare time]

I am betting the color change is a stress indicator. I say just let the fish live their lives

 

[DothanReefer]

juvenile spadefish I think

Bingo++ I think you nailed it!! Thank you!!!

The Atlantic Spadefish (Juvenile) - Whats That Fish!

Also known as the Angelfish. The Atlantic Spadefish (Juvenile) is found in the Western Atlantic, Caribbean region growing up to 90cm in length. Also know as Angelfish, Atlantic Spade, Butterflyfish, *******, Leather Coat, Moonfish, Ocean Cobbler, Pot...

www.whatsthatfish.com

 

[DothanReefer]

I am betting the color change is a stress indicator. I say just let the fish live their lives

After ID'ing them as spades, and realizing they grow to 40lbs, yes lol, they will return to their ocean home this afternoon. Thanks again!!

 

[Sophie"s mom]

I am betting the color change is a stress indicator. I say just let the fish live their lives

Agree 100%

 

[DothanReefer]

Just to confirm: the spadefish were released back into the Gulf yesterday shortly after we caught and ID'd them. Super cool catch though!!

 

[SteveMM62Reef]

If you net Sargassum, you will eventually net a Common Atlantic Pipefish or a Small Seahorse. Be aware you will have to feed them live food. They won’t eat Frozen food, like the AC Pipefish and Seahorses.