Anisotremus davidsonii

Xantic Sargo

Family: Haemulidae · Class: Actinopterygii · Order: Perciformes

The Xantic Sargo (Anisotremus davidsonii) is a marine fish in the grunt family Haemulidae, characterized by its deep, laterally compressed body and distinctive coloration. Adults typically reach lengths of 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 inches), with a robust build and a relatively small mouth. The species displays silver-gray coloration with darker vertical bars along the sides, though coloration can vary with age and habitat. The dorsal fin is continuous with 12 spines and 15-17 soft rays, while the anal fin contains 3 spines and 9-11 soft rays. Xantic Sargo occur along the Pacific coast from Point Conception, California, south to Baja California, Mexico. In California, the species is most commonly found in southern coastal waters, particularly around the Channel Islands and along the mainland coast from Santa Barbara County to the Mexican border. The species has also been documented in the Salton Sea, where it was introduced in the 1950s along with other marine species during connection events with the Gulf of California. This species inhabits rocky reefs, kelp beds, and sandy bottoms in nearshore marine environments, typically at depths ranging from the surf zone to approximately 40 meters (130 feet). Xantic Sargo prefer areas with mixed substrate of rock and sand, often associating with kelp forests and underwater rock formations. Juveniles are commonly found in shallow, protected bays and harbors, while adults occupy deeper reef environments. Water temperatures between 15-22°C (59-72°F) appear optimal for the species. Xantic Sargo are omnivorous feeders, consuming a varied diet of algae, small invertebrates, and detritus. Their feeding behavior includes grazing on algae from rock surfaces and filtering small organisms from the water column. The species exhibits schooling behavior, particularly during juvenile stages, with adults forming smaller aggregations around reef structures. Spawning occurs during warmer months, typically from spring through early fall, with females releasing pelagic eggs that develop in the water column. The species reaches sexual maturity at approximately 2-3 years of age. Currently, Xantic Sargo does not hold federal or state listing status in California, indicating stable population levels within its natural range. The species is considered a game fish and is targeted by recreational anglers, particularly in southern California waters. While no major conservation concerns have been identified, the species may face pressure from habitat degradation, water quality changes, and climate-related shifts in ocean conditions. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife monitors the species through recreational fishing surveys as part of broader marine fisheries assessments. In the Salton Sea, introduced populations face challenges from increasing salinity and declining water levels, though this represents a non-native occurrence outside the species' natural range.

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, and more.