Moroccan White Seabream

Diplodus cadenati

The Moroccan White Seabream is a member of the Sparidae family, commonly found in the Eastern Atlantic from Senegal to the Bay of Biscay, including Madeira and the Azores. This species is typically associated with rocky bottoms and is especially abundant in the surf zone. Divers are likely to encounter it at depths reaching up to 150 meters, though it is often found shallower. Juveniles are known to inhabit seagrass beds, particularly those with Zostera species. This seabream can grow up to 45 cm in length, though a more common size is around 25 cm. It forms schools and feeds primarily on small crustaceans and mollusks, but it also consumes seaweeds and corals. The species exhibits a unique reproductive behavior as a digynic hermaphrodite with partial protandry, meaning individuals can change sex from male to female as they mature. For divers, encountering the Moroccan White Seabream can be an interesting experience, as these fish are harmless and often seen schooling.