The European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Moronidae that grows up to 103 cm.
Description
The European seabass is a slender, powerful predator of the family Moronidae reaching about 1 metre. The streamlined body is silvery-grey with a darker back and bears two separate dorsal fins, the first of which is spiny; juveniles often have a dark spot on the gill cover. The seabass is euryhaline: it tolerates both salt and brackish water and enters estuaries and river mouths. It lives along the eastern Atlantic coast, in the North Sea and the Mediterranean, and hunts in schools for small fish, shrimps and crabs, often in the surf and in tidal channels. The seabass is one of the most prized sport and food fish of the region, so its stock is strictly managed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the European seabass?
The European seabass has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the European seabass live?
The European seabass lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the European seabass get?
The European seabass grows to a maximum of about 103 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the European seabass dangerous to humans?
No, the European seabass is harmless to humans.
Is the European seabass edible?
Yes, the European seabass is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dicentrarchus
More from the family Moronidae
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