In addition to its high-value, baitfish has been the focus of a great deal of recent research evaluating and refining culture protocols and procedures. Controlled production of Atlantic croaker could establish a steady supply, provide size-specific grades of bait, alleviate pressure on wild stocks, diversify aquaculture businesses, and contribute to foodfish sales. The Atlantic croaker is a hardy fish that tolerates a wide range of temperatures and salinities and adapts easily to captivity. The demand for this species cannot be met solely by capturing wild juveniles because of their inconsistent availability and the possibility of damaging wild stocks. Increasing fishing pressure, habitat destruction, juvenile mortality from shrimp trawling, and environmental pollution threaten wild Atlantic croaker stocks. This seasonal availability can increase demand significantly and drive prices higher during the off season. These “panfish of the gulf” are prized by anglers for their fighting ability and their mild- to sweet-flavored, firm fillets.Ītlantic croaker is typically available from May through September along the Gulf Coast. Wild-caught Atlantic croakers are occasionally exported to other countries, although declining commercial landings in recent years have decreased this practice. The culture of Atlantic croaker as high-value live bait has great potential.Ītlantic croaker is also a popular foodfish that has supported commercial and recreational fisheries from New York to Mexico.

Researchers and culturists are interested in baitfish culture because marine bait species can have higher market value than many marine foodfish.

Gulf Coast bait shops often fly yellow flags to indicate to anglers that bait-sized Atlantic croakers are available. The Atlantic croaker, Micropogonias undulatus, is a candidate for multiple-purpose aquaculture production as both a baitfish and foodfish.Ītlantic croakers are popular live baitfish for several saltwater recreational angling species such as spotted seatrout, Cynoscion nebulosus, red drum, Sciaenops ocellatus, and snook, Centropomus undecimalis.

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