Saltwater, Reef and Estuarine fish
Sheepshead
Archosargus probatocephalus
Oval-shaped, deep body with a blunt snout and 5 to 7 distinct vertical black bars over a silver-grey background. It has large, heavy scales and a dorsal fin with sharp spines. Its most striking feature is its several rows of human-like teeth, including incisors and molars.
- Habitat
- Found in coastal waters, estuaries, and bays from Nova S…
- Size & weight
- Typically 10 to 20 inches long; can reach up to 30 inche…
- Diet
- Omnivorous with a preference for hard-shelled prey.…
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Physical characteristics
Oval-shaped, deep body with a blunt snout and 5 to 7 distinct vertical black bars over a silver-grey background. It has large, heavy scales and a dorsal fin with sharp spines. Its most striking feature is its several rows of human-like teeth, including incisors and molars.
Habitat & distribution
Found in coastal waters, estuaries, and bays from Nova Scotia to Brazil, with high concentrations in the Gulf of Mexico. They prefer structure such as oyster reefs, pier pilings, jetties, and mangroves.
Behavior
Generally solitary but can congregate in large numbers near structures or during spawning seasons. They are known for being wary and staying close to covers like pilings or rock walls.
Diet
Omnivorous with a preference for hard-shelled prey. They use their specialized teeth to crush barnacles, crabs, shrimp, oysters, and small mollusks, as well as some organic plant matter.
Reproduction
Spawning occurs in late winter and early spring over offshore sandy bottoms. Larvae move into estuaries and seagrass beds to grow, utilizing the shallow water for protection.
Ecological role
High-level consumer that controls populations of encrusting organisms and crustaceans. Their feeding on barnacles and bivalves helps maintain the health of vertical structures and reefs.
Similar species
Atlantic Spadefish (Chaetodipterus faber) which has a more disc-like body and smaller mouth, and Black Drum (Pogonias cromis) which lacks the specialized teeth and has chin barbels.
Identification tips
Look for the distinct 'convict' stripes (black vertical bars) and the unique, prominent human-like front teeth. They have a very high, arched back compared to other striped coastal fish.
Interesting facts
Their common name likely comes from the resemblance of their teeth and snout to those of a sheep. Their teeth are so strong they can easily crush the heavy shells of blue crabs and barnacles.