Fin's Fish Guide
The Congo dentex (Dentex congoensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The Congo dentex is a small, reddish-pink dentex of the family Sparidae reaching about 50 cm. The deep, laterally compressed body has strong, dog-like canine teeth at the front of the mouth, with which the fish seizes prey. Like many sea breams it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and may later turn into males. The species lives in schools over sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf along the West African coast. It hunts small fish, crustaceans and squid. The Congo dentex is a valued commercial fish landed by the West African bottom fishery.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Congo dentex?
The Congo dentex has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Small, pinkish-red dentex with strong canine teeth at the front of the mouth; lives over soft bottoms of West Africa.
Where does the Congo dentex live?
The Congo dentex lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Congo dentex get?
The Congo dentex grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Congo dentex dangerous to humans?
No, the Congo dentex is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Congo dentex edible?
Yes, the Congo dentex is a highly prized food fish.
Want the complete picture on the Congo dentex?
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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 Congo dentex?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Congo dentex is one of 12,519 species in the app.