Fin's Fish Guide
The Zebra seabream (Diplodus cervinus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, over rocks and mixed bottoms of shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The zebra seabream is a deep, sturdy sea bream of the family Sparidae reaching about 55 cm. The oval, golden-grey body bears five broad, dark cross-bands, from which the species takes its name; the mouth has strong incisors and molars. The species lives over rocks and mixed bottoms of the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, from shallow to moderate depths, often near surf and currents. As an omnivore it eats worms, shellfish, crustaceans and algae. Like many sea breams it is a protandrous hermaphrodite, starting as a male and later becoming female. The zebra seabream is a valued, hard-fighting sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Zebra seabream?
The Zebra seabream has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Deep-bodied sea bream with five broad, dark vertical bars across a golden-grey body, from which the species takes its name.
Where does the Zebra seabream live?
The Zebra seabream lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, over rocks and mixed bottoms of shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Zebra seabream get?
The Zebra seabream grows to a maximum of about 55 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Zebra seabream dangerous to humans?
No, the Zebra seabream is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Zebra seabream edible?
Yes, the Zebra seabream is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Zebra seabream and live in the same waters.
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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 Zebra seabream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Zebra seabream is one of 12,519 species in the app.