Illinois Exotic Species:

striped bass Morone saxatilismul

The striped bass has two separate dorsal fins. Its sides have distinct stripes, including a stripe below the lateral line that is complete through the tail. Its tongue has two tooth patches. A spine is present on the gill cover. The body is olive-green on the back, silver on the sides and white on the belly. This fish often exceeds five pounds in weight and may reach 50 pounds. The striped bass spawns in spring. Its eggs must be suspended by a moving water current until hatching, about 36 to 75 hours. This fish eats fishes and insects. The striped bass lives along the coast of North America in shores, bays and estuaries. It has been stocked in many lakes and reservoirs throughout Illinois.

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