Fin's Fish Guide
The Redbanded seabream (Pagrus auriga) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Eastern Atlantic (from Biscay and the Macaronesian islands along West Africa) and the Mediterranean Sea, near rocky and sandy bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The redbanded seabream is a handsome sea bream of the family Sparidae reaching about 80 cm. The deep, red-silver body bears in young fish several broad, red cross-bands that fade in older individuals; old specimens develop elongated front dorsal-fin rays and a steeper, somewhat humped head profile. Like many sea breams it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and later become males. The species lives near rocky and sandy bottoms of the continental shelf in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean. With its strong jaws and molar-like teeth it crushes shellfish, crabs and crustaceans. With its tasty flesh it is a valued commercial and sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redbanded seabream?
The Redbanded seabream has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Red-and-silver sea bream with a few broad, red vertical bars in juveniles; older fish develop elongated front dorsal fin rays and a steeper head profile.
Where does the Redbanded seabream live?
The Redbanded seabream lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic (from Biscay and the Macaronesian islands along West Africa) and the Mediterranean Sea, near rocky and sandy bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Redbanded seabream get?
The Redbanded seabream grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Redbanded seabream dangerous to humans?
No, the Redbanded seabream is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redbanded seabream edible?
Yes, the Redbanded seabream is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Redbanded seabream 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 Pagrus
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Redbanded seabream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redbanded seabream is one of 12,519 species in the app.