Fin's Fish Guide
The Large eyed dentex (Dentex macrophthalmus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 65 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from Portugal and Gibraltar to Namibia, including Cape Verde, the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean Sea.
Description
The large-eye dentex is a sea bream of the family Sparidae reaching about 65 cm but usually around 30 cm. The species is named for its notably large eyes. The body and fins are reddish, with the anal fin and the lower edge of the forked tail margined in white. The jaws carry canine teeth. The large-eye dentex lives over rock and sand bottoms of the eastern Atlantic, from Portugal to Namibia, and the Mediterranean, usually between 30 and 500 m. It forms schools that migrate seasonally between the coast and deeper water. Adults feed on fish and crustaceans. It is a highly valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Large eyed dentex?
The Large eyed dentex has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Red-coloured sea bream with strikingly large eyes; anal fin and lower caudal fin margin edged in white.
Where does the Large eyed dentex live?
The Large eyed dentex lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Atlantic from Portugal and Gibraltar to Namibia, including Cape Verde, the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the Large eyed dentex get?
The Large eyed dentex grows to a maximum of about 65 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Large eyed dentex dangerous to humans?
No, the Large eyed dentex is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Large eyed dentex edible?
Yes, the Large eyed dentex is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Large eyed 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 Large eyed dentex?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Large eyed dentex is one of 12,519 species in the app.