Holocentrinae

Holocentrinae is a subfamily of marine fish within the family Centrarchidae, which also includes the sunfishes and the pompanoes. This subfamily is characterized by its members being found in both freshwater and marine environments, with a few species inhabiting brackish waters. The Holocentrinae subfamily includes several genera, with the most well-known being Holocentrus, which contains the popular species known as the red drum.

The red drum, Holocentrus americanus, is a popular game fish in the southeastern United States, known for its vibrant red coloration and aggressive nature. Other notable genera within the Holocentrinae subfamily include Ambloplites, which includes the mangrove jack, and Umbrina, which contains the black drum. These fish are typically medium to large in size, with some species reaching lengths of over a meter.

Members of the Holocentrinae subfamily are generally carnivorous, feeding on a variety of prey including small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. They are often found in coastal and estuarine habitats, where they play an important role in the food web. The subfamily is distributed throughout the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, with a few species found in the Mediterranean Sea.

Despite their ecological importance, many species within the Holocentrinae subfamily are threatened by overfishing and habitat loss. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these valuable fish and their habitats, ensuring the continued health of marine ecosystems.