Fin's Fish Guide
The Axillary seabream (Pagellus acarne) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from the British Isles to West Africa and the Mediterranean Sea, on mixed bottoms.
Description
The axillary seabream (Pagellus acarne) is a pinkish-red sea bream of the family Sparidae reaching about 36 cm. The oval body is pink-red with a silvery sheen and, as a hallmark, a conspicuous dark or red spot at the base of the pectoral fin, in the 'axil', from which it takes its name. The species lives in schools over sand, rock and mixed bottoms of the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, from shallow water to several hundred metres. It is a bottom hunter eating worms, small crustaceans and shellfish. Like many sea breams it is a protandrous hermaphrodite, starting as a male and later becoming female. Its fine flesh makes it a valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Axillary seabream?
The Axillary seabream has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Pinkish-red sea bream with a striking dark or red blotch at the base of the pectoral fin (the axil).
Where does the Axillary seabream live?
The Axillary seabream lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Atlantic from the British Isles to West Africa and the Mediterranean Sea, on mixed bottoms.
How big does the Axillary seabream get?
The Axillary seabream grows to a maximum of about 36 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Axillary seabream dangerous to humans?
No, the Axillary seabream is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Axillary seabream edible?
Yes, the Axillary seabream is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Axillary seabream and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pagellus
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Axillary seabream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Axillary seabream is one of 12,519 species in the app.