Fin's Fish Guide
The Saddled seabream (Oblada melanura) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 34 cm.
Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, above rocks and seagrass in shallow water.
Description
The saddled seabream is a silvery sea bream of the family Sparidae reaching about 34 cm. The oval, laterally compressed body is silvery-grey with faint grey longitudinal stripes and bears, as a hallmark, a conspicuous black, white-edged spot on the tail base that resembles a saddle. The species forms schools over rocks and seagrass beds in shallow water of the eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. As an omnivore it eats algae, worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. Unlike many sea breams it is a simultaneous hermaphrodite, with male and female organs at once. The saddled seabream is a lively, fast fish that bites readily and is therefore popular with anglers along the Mediterranean coast.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Saddled seabream?
The Saddled seabream is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Silvery sea bream with a striking black blotch with a white edge ('saddle') on the caudal peduncle and faint grey longitudinal stripes.
Where does the Saddled seabream live?
The Saddled seabream lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, above rocks and seagrass in shallow water.
How big does the Saddled seabream get?
The Saddled seabream grows to a maximum of about 34 cm.
Is the Saddled seabream dangerous to humans?
No, the Saddled seabream is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Saddled seabream edible?
Yes, the Saddled seabream is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Sparidae
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