Spotted Seabass

Dicentrarchus punctatus

The spotted seabass is a silver-grey fish known for its distinctive black spots and a bluish back when alive. It can grow up to 70 cm, though it is more commonly around 30 cm in length. A notable feature is the large black spot on the opercle. This species inhabits the coastal eastern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the English Channel to Senegal and the Canary Islands, and is also found in the Mediterranean Sea. It prefers marine and brackish waters, often residing at depths shallower than 30 meters, and can be found on various substrates including sand, muddy sand, and rocks. Feeding primarily on shrimp and mollusks, the spotted seabass is also known to consume smaller fish. Its breeding season varies with geography; in the Mediterranean, it spawns from January to March, while in northern regions such as the English Channel, spawning occurs from March to May. Divers might encounter this fish in coastal waters, where it is a minor commercial species and a popular game fish. The conservation status of the spotted seabass is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. It is harmless to humans and is often caught using various fishing methods. Divers may find it in areas with brackish water, occasionally even in hypersaline habitats.