Morone saxatilis, commonly known as the striped bass, is a large, predatory fish found along the Atlantic coast of North America. It is distinguished by its sleek, silvery body with dark horizontal stripes. The striped bass is anadromous, migrating from the ocean to freshwater rivers to spawn.

Morone saxatilis, commonly known as the striped bass, is native to the eastern coast of North America. Its geographical distribution includes the Atlantic coast from the St. Lawrence River in Canada to northern Florida in the United States. It is also found in the Gulf of Mexico as far west as Louisiana. The species has been introduced to several inland reservoirs and river systems across the United States and has established populations in the Pacific Ocean, particularly along the California coast.

Striped bass typically inhabit coastal waters, estuaries, and river systems. They prefer environments with a mix of saltwater and freshwater, known as brackish water, but can also be found in purely freshwater environments. The species thrives in moderate to warm climates and is often associated with waters where the temperature ranges from 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F).

Striped bass occupy a predatory niche in their ecosystem, feeding on a variety of smaller fish species such as herring, shad, and anchovies, as well as invertebrates like squid and crustaceans. They play a significant role in controlling the populations of these prey species, and their presence is an indicator of healthy, well-balanced aquatic ecosystems. The species is known for its migratory behavior, moving between freshwater habitats for spawning and saltwater environments for feeding and growth.