Fin's Fish Guide
The Common dentex (Dentex dentex) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, above rocks and mixed bottoms of shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The common dentex is a robust, deep-bodied sea bream of the family Sparidae reaching about 1 metre. The silvery-grey, bluish-shimmering body has a strong head and a mouth with conspicuous, dog-like canine teeth; juveniles bear fine blue speckles, large individuals become more uniformly grey. The species lives over rocks and mixed bottoms of the Mediterranean and the eastern Atlantic. Young fish form small groups, large fish hunt solitarily for fish, squid and crustaceans. Like many sea breams it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The common dentex is a highly prized sport and food fish; through overfishing in the Mediterranean it is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common dentex?
The Common dentex has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Large, deep-bodied sea bream with a sturdy head and a mouth with striking, dog-like canine teeth; juveniles with blue speckles.
Where does the Common dentex live?
The Common dentex lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, above rocks and mixed bottoms of shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Common dentex get?
The Common dentex grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Common dentex dangerous to humans?
No, the Common dentex is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common dentex edible?
Yes, the Common dentex is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Common dentex 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 Dentex
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Common dentex?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common dentex is one of 12,519 species in the app.