Fin's Fish Guide
The Phoebe (Serranus phoebe) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The tattler is a small seabass (family Serranidae) of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species reaches about 20 cm and has a streamlined, brown-silvery body with dark bars. It is solitary and inhabits rocky areas. Its diet consists mainly of shrimps, and to a lesser extent crabs and bivalves. Notably the species is a synchronous hermaphrodite: each individual has functional male and female reproductive organs at the same time. The fish is harmless to humans and of little commercial value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Phoebe?
The Phoebe has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Small sea bass that is a synchronous hermaphrodite (male and female at the same time).
Where does the Phoebe live?
The Phoebe lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on rocky areas.
How big does the Phoebe get?
The Phoebe grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Phoebe dangerous to humans?
No, the Phoebe is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Phoebe edible?
The Phoebe is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Serranus
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Phoebe?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Phoebe is one of 12,519 species in the app.