Fin's Fish Guide
The Longtail bass (Hemanthias leptus) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The longtail bass is a sea bass (Serranidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has an elongate, pink to reddish body with yellowish tints and elongated fin rays, including a long upper tail lobe, to which the name refers. It lives on hard bottoms of deeper reefs and the continental slope. It feeds on zooplankton and small fishes that it catches above the bottom in the water column. It is a local food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longtail bass?
The Longtail bass has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Elongated fin rays and a long upper caudal lobe; plankton eater of deeper reefs.
Where does the Longtail bass live?
The Longtail bass lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; hard bottoms of deeper reefs and slope.
How big does the Longtail bass get?
The Longtail bass grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Longtail bass dangerous to humans?
No, the Longtail bass is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Longtail bass edible?
Yes, the Longtail bass is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemanthias
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Longtail bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longtail bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.