Fin's Fish Guide
The Southern common seabream (Pagrus africanus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy, gravel and rocky bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The southern common seabream is a red-silver sea bream of the family Sparidae reaching about 75 cm; it is the southern counterpart of the European common seabream. The deep, sturdy body has strong jaws with pointed front teeth and molar-like back teeth, with which the fish crushes shellfish, crabs and crustaceans. Like many sea breams it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and later become males. The species lives in schools over sand, gravel and rock bottoms of the continental shelf along the West African coast. With its tasty flesh the southern common seabream is a valued commercial and sport fish of the region.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Southern common seabream?
The Southern common seabream has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Red-and-silver sea bream with powerful jaws and molar-like back teeth to crush shellfish; a valued table fish.
Where does the Southern common seabream live?
The Southern common seabream lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy, gravel and rocky bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Southern common seabream get?
The Southern common seabream grows to a maximum of about 75 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Southern common seabream dangerous to humans?
No, the Southern common seabream is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Southern common seabream edible?
Yes, the Southern common seabream is a highly prized food fish.
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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 Southern common seabream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern common seabream is one of 12,519 species in the app.