The Painted comber (Serranus scriba) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Description
The painted comber is a small, colourful sea perch of the family Serranidae reaching about 36 cm. The brownish body has several dark cross-bars, a pale-blue patch on the belly and, on the head, a pattern of blue, winding lines resembling writing, from which the species takes its name. It lives over rocks and seagrass in shallow water of the eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. As a territorial ambush hunter it seizes small fish, crustaceans and squid. Notably, the painted comber is a simultaneous hermaphrodite: each individual carries both male and female organs at once and can thus spawn with any conspecific. It is a much-caught pan and sport fish in the Mediterranean region.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Painted comber?
The Painted comber has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Painted comber live?
The Painted comber lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Painted comber get?
The Painted comber grows to a maximum of about 36 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Painted comber dangerous to humans?
No, the Painted comber is harmless to humans.
Is the Painted comber edible?
Yes, the Painted comber is commonly eaten.
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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
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