Fin's Fish Guide
The Tobaccofish (Serranus tabacarius) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The tobaccofish is a small seabass from the western Atlantic, ranging from Bermuda and Florida through the Caribbean to Brazil. The species grows to about 22 cm and has a yellowish-brown, tobacco-coloured body with fine markings. It lives on sandy and reef bottoms and hunts small fish and invertebrates. Like other species of the genus Serranus it is a simultaneous hermaphrodite. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tobaccofish?
The Tobaccofish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Simultaneous hermaphrodite; small tobacco-coloured sea bass
Where does the Tobaccofish live?
The Tobaccofish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Tobaccofish get?
The Tobaccofish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm. On average the species is around 16 cm.
Is the Tobaccofish dangerous to humans?
No, the Tobaccofish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Tobaccofish edible?
The Tobaccofish is rarely 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
Want the complete picture on the Tobaccofish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tobaccofish is one of 12,519 species in the app.