Fin's Fish Guide
The Saddle bass (Serranus notospilus) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The saddle bass (Serranus notospilus) is a small sea bass of the family Serranidae from the western Atlantic. The species has a stocky, reddish to silvery body with a few dark, saddle-shaped marks on the back, and reaches about 10 cm. It inhabits hard and soft bottoms of the continental shelf, where it lives among rocks and structure. As an ambush predator it feeds on small crustaceans and small fishes. Notably the species is a synchronous hermaphrodite: a single individual carries functional male and female gonads at the same time. Owing to its small size it has no fishery value and is mainly of interest as a reef inhabitant.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Saddle bass?
The Saddle bass has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Synchronous hermaphrodite with male and female gonads at the same time; saddle-shaped blotches on the back.
Where does the Saddle bass live?
The Saddle bass lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Continental shelf of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Saddle bass get?
The Saddle bass grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Saddle bass dangerous to humans?
No, the Saddle bass is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Saddle bass edible?
The Saddle bass is not usually 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 Saddle bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Saddle bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.