The Sheepshead Porgy (Calamus penna), a member of the Sparidae family, is a bottom-dwelling marine fish recognized for its compressed body, silvery coloration, and distinctive teeth adapted for crushing shellfish and crustaceans. This species is primarily found in the western Atlantic Ocean, especially in the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and along the southeastern coast of the United States. The top countries harvesting Sheepshead Porgy include the United States (notably Florida and the Gulf states), Cuba, the Bahamas, and other Caribbean nations, where it is a valued target for both commercial and recreational fisheries. The fishing industry for Sheepshead Porgy is characterized by small-scale artisanal operations using traps, hook-and-line, and nets, with the catch sold fresh in local markets and sometimes exported regionally. The species is prized for its mild, flavorful flesh and plays an important role in supporting coastal livelihoods throughout its range.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.