Fin's Fish Guide
The Bearded umbrine (Umbrina cirrosa) is a saltwater fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 104 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and Black Sea and the eastern Atlantic from the Bay of Biscay to Senegal.
Description
The shi drum is a sturdy coastal fish of the family Sciaenidae (drums and croakers) reaching about 100 cm but usually around 40 cm. The silvery-grey, elongate body carries oblique, golden wavy lines and a short barbel under the chin with which the fish searches for food by touch. Using its swim bladder it can, like other croakers, produce a conspicuous drumming sound. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms in shallow coastal water of the Mediterranean, the Black Sea and the eastern Atlantic, eating bottom invertebrates and small fish. Because of its tasty flesh it is a highly valued target and aquaculture fish, which has put pressure on wild populations.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bearded umbrine?
The Bearded umbrine has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Coastal fish with a short chin barbel and oblique, golden wavy lines on the flank; makes a drumming sound with its swim bladder.
Where does the Bearded umbrine live?
The Bearded umbrine lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea and Black Sea and the eastern Atlantic from the Bay of Biscay to Senegal.
How big does the Bearded umbrine get?
The Bearded umbrine grows to a maximum of about 104 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Bearded umbrine dangerous to humans?
No, the Bearded umbrine is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bearded umbrine edible?
Yes, the Bearded umbrine is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Bearded umbrine 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 Umbrina
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Bearded umbrine?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bearded umbrine is one of 12,519 species in the app.