MACKEREL, CERO

C, M -

MACKEREL, CERO

Scientific Name: 
Scomberomorus regalis
Salt/Fresh: 
Salt
Also Known As: 
Cero; Spotted Cero; King Mackerel; Black Spotted Spanish Mackerel; Sierra; Pintada; Cavalla; MACKEREL, CERO; Painted Mackerel; Carite; Carite Chinigua; Carite Rey; Carito; Caval-branca; Königsmakrele; Makrela Krowleska; Serra-malhada; Thazard Atlantique; Thazard Franc; Zapadnoatlanticeskaya Makrel
Rating: 
Countries: 
Other Countries
United States
Description: 

The Cero Mackerel is a ray-finned bony fish in the family Scombridae, better known as the Mackerel family. More specifically, this fish is a member of the tribe Scomberomorini, the Spanish Mackerels, and is the type species of the genus Scomberomorus. It is similar in appearance and coloration to the Atlantic Spanish Mackerel except the cero has a longitudinal stripe in addition to the spots of the Atlantic Spanish Mackerel.

How To Identify: 

The elongate, streamlined body of the Cero Mackerel is well-adapted for swimming at speeds up to 30 mph (48 kph). The body is covered with small scales, with the lateral line sloping downwards toward the caudal peduncle. Another similar fish, the King Mackerel, can be distinguished from the Cero Mackerel as it has a lateral line that curves downward below the second dorsal fin. The caudal fin is lunate and the pelvic fins are relatively long. Scales extend out onto the pectoral fins. This characteristic distinguishes it from the King Mackerel and the Spanish Mackerel, two scombrids lacking scales on the pectoral fins. The spiny and soft dorsal fins are separate, with the soft dorsal fin matching the anal fin directly below it. There are a series of finlets following each fin as well as three keels on either side of the caudal peduncle. The swim bladder is absent in the Cero Mackerel. Although, the Cero Mackerel is often confused with the Spanish Mackerel, there are three main differences between the two species. Firstly, the Cero Mackerel has an elongate posterior pelvic process. Secondly, there is a difference in the circulatory system, where the Cero Mackerel has a coeliaco-mesenteric shunt, and the Spanish Mackerel does not. Lastly the Cero Mackerel does not have a pterotic spine.

How To Catch: 

Cero Mackerel are a highly valued fish throughout their range from North Carolina to Texas. Recreational anglers catch Cero Mackerel from boats while trolling or drifting and from boats, piers, jetties, and beaches by casting spoons and jigs and live-bait fishing. Fast lure retrieves are key to catching these quick fish. Commercial methods are primarily run-around gill netting, and rarely, by trolling lures similar to those used by recreational anglers.

Where Found: 

International

This species is found from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in the western Atlantic including the insular Caribbean. In Florida, it is rare north of Palm Beach, but common throughout the Florida Keys and throughout the West Indies.

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