How to Identify Red Sea Bream

To identify Red Sea Bream (Pagrus africanus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Overall silvery-pink to reddish-silver, often with a darker reddish hue dorsally and lighter ventral side. Juveniles may exhibit faint vertical bands. The operculum often has a reddish margin. Fins are typically reddish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Robust, deep body, Large head with a steep dorsal profile, Strong, conical teeth at the front of the jaws, followed by molar-like teeth for crushing, Absence of black spot at the origin of the lateral line (distinguishes from some other Pagrus species), Often a bluish or purplish sheen on the head and upper body in fresh specimens

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 11-12 spines and 10-11 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 8-9 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Coloration

   Look for the characteristic silvery-pink to reddish-silver body, often with a darker reddish back. The reddish opercular margin is a good indicator.

2. 2

   Head and Mouth

   Observe the large head with a steep profile and the powerful dentition, including prominent conical teeth at the front.

3. 3

   Absence of Black Spot

   Crucially, Pagrus africanus lacks the distinct black spot at the origin of the lateral line that is present in some other Pagrus species (e.g., Pagrus pagrus).

4. 4

   Fin Spines and Rays

   Count the dorsal fin spines (11-12) and soft rays (10-11) and anal fin spines (3) and soft rays (8-9) for precise identification.

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