Centropomus undecimalis, commonly known as the common snook, is a tropical fish found in the coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. It boasts a sleek, elongated body with a distinctive lateral line and a prominent lower jaw. This species is known for its opportunistic feeding habits and preference for warm, shallow waters, often near mangroves.

Centropomus undecimalis, commonly known as the common snook, is native to the western Atlantic Ocean. It is predominantly found along the coastlines of the southeastern United States, particularly Florida, and extends through the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and down to Brazil. This species is also prevalent in Central American countries, including Mexico, Belize, and Honduras.

The common snook typically inhabits warm, subtropical, and tropical coastal waters. It thrives in a range of salinities, from freshwater to marine environments, often found in estuaries, lagoons, and mangrove-lined shorelines. This species prefers areas with abundant cover and structures, such as submerged vegetation, docks, and pilings.

Centropomus undecimalis occupies a versatile ecological niche as both a predator and a prey species within its habitat. It primarily feeds on smaller fish and crustaceans, playing a crucial role in the food web. The species exhibits strong site fidelity, often remaining in the same area for extended periods unless environmental conditions necessitate movement, such as temperature changes or salinity shifts. Its adaptability to varying salinity levels allows it to exploit diverse ecological settings, contributing to its widespread distribution.