Fish
Sharpsnout seabream
Diplodus puntazzo
(GSA7) Gulf of Lion, (GSA8) Corsica
Zones de pêche
Wild
Origine
18 cm
Taille minimale
Description
Its body is oval and laterally compressed, typical of the Sparidae (the family of sea bream and sars). Its most distinctive feature is its very pointed and elongated snout, with thin lips. The front teeth (incisors) are strongly inclined forward. The body is silvery gray with 7 to 11 alternating black vertical bars (more or less dark depending on age). It has a distinct black spot on the caudal peduncle (at the base of the tail) that often forms an almost complete ring. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are often edged with black. The typical size is 25 to 30 cm, but it can reach a maximum size of 60 cm. It is omnivorous with a preference for sessile organisms. Its pointed snout allows it to gather algae, sponges, worms, and small mollusks from the crevices of rocks.
Habitat
A marine and benthic species (living near the seabed). It is also found in brackish waters (lagoons) because it tolerates variations in salinity. It is generally found at depths between 0 and 60 meters, but is most common within the first 10 meters. It prefers rocky bottoms and surf zones (where the water breaks against the rocks). It is also found in Posidonia seagrass beds and on sandy bottoms adjacent to rocks.
Distribution
From the Bay of Biscay to South Africa, including the Canary Islands and Cape Verde. It is found less frequently as far as the coast of Sierra Leone. Very common throughout the Mediterranean basin. Present but less abundant in the Black Sea.