Fin's Fish Guide
The Cherne (Centropristis philadelphica) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The rock sea bass (Centropristis philadelphica) is a small sea bass of the family Serranidae from the western Atlantic. The species has a stocky, brownish to greyish mottled body, often with a dark saddle blotch on the back, and reaches about 30 cm. It prefers hard bottoms, rocks, jetties and ledges. As an ambush predator it feeds on crustaceans and small fishes. Like many sea basses the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite: fish first function as females and can later turn into males. It is caught locally and is a valued, if small, food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cherne?
The Cherne has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Marbled body with a dark saddle blotch; protogynous hermaphrodite of hard bottoms.
Where does the Cherne live?
The Cherne lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Hard bottoms and rocky areas of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Cherne get?
The Cherne grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Cherne dangerous to humans?
No, the Cherne is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Cherne edible?
Yes, the Cherne is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Cherne?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cherne is one of 12,519 species in the app.