How to Identify Red Sea Bream

To identify Red Sea Bream (Pagellus bogaraveo), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-pink to reddish-silver on the back, fading to silvery-white on the belly. Fins are often reddish. A distinctive black spot is present at the origin of the lateral line.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large eyes, positioned high on the head., A prominent black spot at the origin of the lateral line., Relatively small mouth with several rows of conical teeth in the front and molar-like teeth in the back., Protandrous hermaphrodite (males mature first, then transition to females).

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12-13 spines and 11-13 soft rays.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 10-11 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Black Spot

   Look for the distinct black spot at the origin of the lateral line, just behind the operculum. This is a key identifying feature.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Observe the overall silvery-pink to reddish-silver body color, which is characteristic of the species.

3. 3

   Eye Size

   Note the relatively large eyes, which are typical for species inhabiting deeper waters.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   The body is oval and compressed, typical of many sparid species.

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