Fin's Fish Guide
The Littlemouth porgy (Calamus penna) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Description
The sheepshead porgy is a porgy (Sparidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has a deep, silvery body with a steep head profile and a fairly small mouth with strong jaws. It occurs in clear reef areas over soft or semi-hard bottoms; juveniles grow up among seagrass. With its grinding teeth it cracks molluscs, crustaceans and other bottom invertebrates. It is a food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Littlemouth porgy?
The Littlemouth porgy has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Steep head profile and strong grinding teeth for crushing hard-shelled prey; reef-dwelling sea bream. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Littlemouth porgy live?
The Littlemouth porgy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic; clear reef areas over soft bottoms.
How big does the Littlemouth porgy get?
The Littlemouth porgy grows to a maximum of about 46 cm. On average the species is around 28 cm.
Is the Littlemouth porgy dangerous to humans?
The Littlemouth porgy is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Littlemouth porgy edible?
Yes, the Littlemouth porgy is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Calamus
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Littlemouth porgy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Littlemouth porgy is one of 12,519 species in the app.