What Divers Should Know About Spotted Drums

The Spotted Drum (Eques punctatus) is a distinctive member of the drum and croaker family, Sciaenidae, commonly observed across the Western Atlantic Ocean. These fish typically reach a length of about 18 cm (7.1 inches), though individuals up to 27 cm (11 inches) have been recorded. Its striking adult coloration features dark fins adorned with crisp white spotting. The head and high, spiny dorsal fin are marked by vertical white and dark brown bars, which transition into elegant longitudinal stripes along its oblong body.

Divers typically encounter these fascinating fish associated with coral reefs, often at depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters (9.8 to 98.4 ft). Look for them under ledges or near the openings of small caves, where they frequently swim in characteristic repetitive patterns during daylight hours. While visible during the day, Spotted Drums are primarily nocturnal feeders, venturing out at night to forage for small crustaceans and worms.