How to Identify Red Steenbras

To identify Red Steenbras (Petrus rupestris), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Juveniles are typically reddish-brown to copper-red, often with faint vertical bars. Adults are generally coppery-bronze to greyish-red dorsally, fading to a lighter belly. Fins are often darker, sometimes with reddish tints. Older, larger specimens can appear almost uniformly dark grey or brownish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large, robust body with a deep profile., Powerful jaws with strong, conical teeth, particularly prominent canines at the front of both jaws., Large, prominent eyes., Thick, fleshy lips., A single, continuous dorsal fin with strong spines., Large, ctenoid scales.

Dorsal fin

Single, continuous dorsal fin with 10-12 strong spines followed by 10-12 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 strong spines and 7-8 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size and Shape

   Look for a large, deep-bodied fish with a robust build. Adults can reach impressive sizes.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Observe the coppery-bronze to reddish-grey coloration in adults, often with a lighter belly. Juveniles are distinctly redder.

3. 3

   Mouth and Teeth

   Note the large mouth with thick lips and prominent, conical canine teeth at the front of the jaws, indicative of its predatory nature.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin

   Identify the single, continuous dorsal fin with strong, sharp spines in the anterior portion.

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