Tarpon
Megalops atlanticus
Sighting evidence at Dean's Blue Hole, Long Island
Photo: Rachel Andres-Beck · CC BY-NC
Large tarpon are resident in the upper reaches of Dean's Blue Hole and the surrounding bay, often hanging motionless near the surface or patrolling just inside the cavern entrance. Ancient and primitive in lineage, tarpon breathe atmospheric air using a modified swim bladder and must periodically roll at the surface. In the sheltered bay they can reach 1.5 metres in length, silver sides catching the filtered light in dramatic flashes that perfectly complement the surreal setting.
Evidence at this site
No confirmed records on file at this site
Tarpon is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.