Fin's Fish Guide
The Spottail seabream (Diplodus holbrookii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Western Atlantic from Chesapeake Bay to Florida and the northeastern Gulf of Mexico; shallow coastal waters, bays and seagrass beds.
Description
The spottail seabream (Diplodus holbrookii) is a porgy of the western Atlantic, from Chesapeake Bay to Florida and the north-eastern Gulf of Mexico. It grows to 46 centimetres and lives in shallow salt and brackish coastal water, in bays, harbours and seagrass beds over flat, vegetated bottoms, usually at 1-28 metres. The torpedo-shaped, silver-grey body bears a conspicuous dark spot near the tail base. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates. The species is harmless and is taken in minor commercial and recreational fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spottail seabream?
The Spottail seabream has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Striking dark blotch near the caudal peduncle; inhabits seagrass beds and sandy coastal bottoms.
Where does the Spottail seabream live?
The Spottail seabream lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic from Chesapeake Bay to Florida and the northeastern Gulf of Mexico; shallow coastal waters, bays and seagrass beds.
How big does the Spottail seabream get?
The Spottail seabream grows to a maximum of about 46 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Spottail seabream dangerous to humans?
No, the Spottail seabream is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spottail seabream edible?
Yes, the Spottail seabream is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Diplodus
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Spottail seabream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spottail seabream is one of 12,519 species in the app.