Banded Seabream

Diplodus fasciatus

The banded seabream is a marine fish found exclusively in the waters around Cape Verde in the eastern Atlantic Ocean. It is recognized by its oval, compressed body and distinctive coloration. The fish features five dark bands across its body, which are the inspiration for its name, and a black bar running between its eyes. Its lips are pink, and its pectoral fins are yellow, contrasting with the dark yellowish hue of the other fins. Typically, the banded seabream grows up to 30 cm in length, though it can reach a maximum size of 45 cm. This species inhabits rocky and sandy substrates at depths of up to 100 meters. Divers may encounter it in small groups of up to five individuals of varying sizes. The banded seabream is omnivorous, with a diet primarily consisting of small invertebrates. The conservation status of the banded seabream is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Encounters with this species can be a regular occurrence for divers exploring the Cape Verde region, given its endemic nature and the number of dive sites where it has been recorded.