Fin's Fish Guide
The Karanteen (Crenidens crenidens) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Originally the Red Sea and the western Indian Ocean, in shallow coastal water over seagrass and soft bottoms.
Description
The karanteen is a silvery sea bream of the family Sparidae reaching about 30 cm. The deep, oval and laterally compressed body bears fine, yellowish lengthwise stripes along the silvery flank; the mouth has the comb-like incisor teeth typical of sea breams. The species is native to the Red Sea and the western Indian Ocean but has entered the eastern Mediterranean through the Suez Canal as a Lessepsian migrant, where it has become established. In schools it grazes algae and seagrass in shallow coastal water and seeks worms and small bottom invertebrates. Locally it is landed by coastal fisheries and eaten. As an established exotic it contributes to the changing fish fauna of the eastern Mediterranean.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Karanteen?
The Karanteen has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Silvery bream-like fish with a deep, oval shape and fine, yellowish longitudinal stripes; a Lessepsian migrant in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.
Where does the Karanteen live?
The Karanteen lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Originally the Red Sea and the western Indian Ocean, in shallow coastal water over seagrass and soft bottoms.
How big does the Karanteen get?
The Karanteen grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 28 cm.
Is the Karanteen dangerous to humans?
No, the Karanteen is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Karanteen edible?
Yes, the Karanteen is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Karanteen and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Sparidae
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