Fin's Fish Guide
The Canary dentex (Dentex canariensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from Portugal to West Africa, also in the southern Mediterranean Sea, over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The Canary dentex is a robust, reddish-pink dentex of the family Sparidae reaching about 1 metre. The deep, laterally compressed body has strong, dog-like canine teeth at the front of the mouth; older animals develop a steep, somewhat humped head. Like many sea breams it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and may later become males. The species lives in schools over sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf from Portugal to West Africa and in the southern Mediterranean. As a predator it hunts fish, crustaceans and squid. With its tasty flesh the Canary dentex is a valued commercial and sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Canary dentex?
The Canary dentex has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Large, pinkish-red dentex with powerful canine teeth; older individuals develop a steep, humped head.
Where does the Canary dentex live?
The Canary dentex lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from Portugal to West Africa, also in the southern Mediterranean Sea, over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Canary dentex get?
The Canary dentex grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 33 cm.
Is the Canary dentex dangerous to humans?
No, the Canary dentex is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Canary dentex edible?
Yes, the Canary dentex is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Dentex
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Canary dentex?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Canary dentex is one of 12,519 species in the app.