Fin's Fish Guide
The Angolan dentex (Dentex angolensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 37 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The Angolan dentex is a reddish-pink dentex of the family Sparidae reaching about 37 cm. The deep, laterally compressed body has strong, dog-like canine teeth at the front of the mouth, with which the fish seizes prey; it is a more predatory sea bream than most relatives. Like many sea breams it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and may later turn into males. The species lives in schools over sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf along the West African coast. It hunts fish, crustaceans and squid. The Angolan dentex is a valued commercial and sport fish in West Africa with tasty flesh.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Angolan dentex?
The Angolan dentex has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Red-pink dentex with powerful canine teeth at the front of the mouth; a predatory sea bream of West African sandy bottoms.
Where does the Angolan dentex live?
The Angolan dentex lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Angolan dentex get?
The Angolan dentex grows to a maximum of about 37 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Angolan dentex dangerous to humans?
No, the Angolan dentex is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Angolan dentex edible?
Yes, the Angolan dentex is a highly prized food fish.
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Dentex
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Angolan dentex?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Angolan dentex is one of 12,519 species in the app.