Fin's Fish Guide
The Black sea bass (Centropristis striata) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 66 cm.
Description
The black seabass (Centropristis striata) is a sea bass of the family Serranidae from the western Atlantic. The species has a stocky, grey-black to blue-black body with thick lips and strong fin spines; breeding males develop a conspicuous hump on the nape. It reaches about 66 cm and is common around rock jetties, wrecks and on rocky bottoms in shallow water. As an ambush predator it feeds on crustaceans, mollusks and small fishes. The species is a protogynous hermaphrodite: fish first function as females and later turn into males. The fin spines are mildly venomous and can prick. The black seabass is a prized sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black sea bass?
The Black sea bass has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Protogynous hermaphrodite; spawning males with a nape hump and mildly venomous fin spines.
Where does the Black sea bass live?
The Black sea bass lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Rocky coastal waters of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Black sea bass get?
The Black sea bass grows to a maximum of about 66 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Black sea bass dangerous to humans?
The Black sea bass is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are mildly venomous and can cause painful puncture wounds. Clean and disinfect the wound; for persistent pain immerse for 30-90 minutes in water of about 45 °C and seek medical help if infection occurs.
Is the Black sea bass edible?
Yes, the Black sea bass is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Black sea bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black sea bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Centropristis
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Black sea bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black sea bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.