Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted sand bass (Paralabrax maculatofasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Eastern Pacific from California to Mexico, on sandy and silty bottoms, in seagrass and near reefs of shallow coastal water.
Description
The spotted sand bass is a sturdy sea bass of the family Serranidae reaching about 60 cm. The brownish body is covered with numerous dark spots over head, body and fins, with a stoutly spined dorsal fin. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms, in seagrass and around reefs of shallow coastal water in the eastern Pacific, from California to Mexico. As a bottom ambush hunter it eats crabs, shrimp, molluscs and small fish. Because of its size, tasty flesh and good fight it is a prized coastal sport fish, especially in bays and over seagrass beds. Locally it is an important recreational target, for which catch rules apply to keep the stock healthy.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted sand bass?
The Spotted sand bass has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Sturdy sea bass with numerous dark spots over head and body; a scavenging predator of sandy bottoms and seagrass.
Where does the Spotted sand bass live?
The Spotted sand bass lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific from California to Mexico, on sandy and silty bottoms, in seagrass and near reefs of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Spotted sand bass get?
The Spotted sand bass grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Spotted sand bass dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted sand bass is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotted sand bass edible?
Yes, the Spotted sand bass is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paralabrax
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted sand bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted sand bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.