Centropristis striata, commonly known as the black sea bass, is a marine fish found along the Atlantic coast of the United States. It inhabits rocky bottoms and reefs, displaying a dark, mottled coloration that provides camouflage. Known for its protogynous hermaphroditism, it changes sex from female to male as it matures.

Centropristis striata, commonly known as the Black Sea Bass, is native to the western Atlantic Ocean. Its geographical distribution spans from the Gulf of Maine in the United States down to the northeastern coast of Florida, and it is also found in the northern Gulf of Mexico.

The Black Sea Bass typically inhabits shallow coastal waters, preferring rocky bottoms, reefs, and structures such as shipwrecks. They are found at depths ranging from 2 to 100 meters. The species thrives in temperate to subtropical climates, with water temperatures generally ranging from 5°C to 27°C.

Centropristis striata occupies a benthic ecological niche, playing a critical role in the coastal marine ecosystem as both predator and prey. They feed on smaller fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates, contributing to the control of these populations, while also serving as a food source for larger marine predators. Seasonal migrations occur, with the species moving to deeper waters during colder months and returning to shallower areas in warmer seasons.