Genus: Diplectrum, Sandperch Grouper, Sandperches, Sea Basses
elongate
D X, 11-13
C concave/forked
teeth fixed
angle preoperclum: large spiny spur
A 6-8
DIPLECTRUM
SANDPERCHES, SEA BASSES
Body elongate, moderately compressed; rear of top jaw exposed when mouth closed; teeth fixed, not movable; lower corner of preopercle with bony spur supporting 1-2 groups of large spines; dorsal fairly low, X, 11-13; anal III, 6-8; tail concave to forked; pelvics inserted under or a little before pectorals; lateral line complete; scales moderately small, rough; snout and between eyes scaleless.
A neotropical genus of 12 species; 3 W Atlantic species in our area.
