How to Identify Red Sea Bream

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

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Predominantly reddish-pink to silvery-red on the dorsal side, fading to a lighter, silvery-white on the ventral side. Often exhibits scattered iridescent blue spots on the upper flanks, particularly in younger individuals. Fins are typically reddish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large, prominent eyes, often appearing golden or reddish., A steep, convex head profile., Strong, conical teeth at the front of the jaws, with molar-like teeth in the back for crushing shells., A small, dark spot at the origin of the lateral line, just above the pectoral fin base (more prominent in some individuals).

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12 spines and 10-12 soft rays. The spiny portion is robust.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin, with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed, reaching beyond the origin of the anal fin.

Distinctive fins

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

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   Look for the characteristic reddish-pink body, often with iridescent blue spots on the upper flanks. This distinguishes it from many other sparids.

2. 2

   Head Profile and Eyes

   Note the steep, convex head profile and the relatively large, prominent eyes, which are often golden or reddish.

3. 3

   Teeth

   If observable, the presence of strong conical teeth anteriorly and molariform teeth posteriorly is a key sparid characteristic, adapted for crushing shells.

4. 4

   Lateral Line Spot

   A small, dark spot at the origin of the lateral line, just above the pectoral fin base, can be a helpful, though sometimes subtle, identifier.

5. 5

   Fin Ray Counts

   Accurate fin ray counts (D XII, 10-12; A III, 8-9) can confirm identification, especially when differentiating from closely related species.

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