scup

Scup, scientifically known as Stenotomus chrysops, are a type of porgy fish found along the Atlantic coast of the United States, primarily from North Carolina to Maine. They are commonly used as a panfish, meaning they are a popular choice for cooking and eating.1

Scup belong to the order Scorpaeniformes, which includes a diverse group of fishes, many of which are found in warm tropical seas and shallow continental shelf waters. While some scorpaeniforms are well-camouflaged and ambush their prey, others are more boldly colored and display warning patterns. Many scorpaeniforms are commercially important, though scup itself is noted for its use as a panfish rather than for large-scale commercial fishing.23