The Black Seabream, scientifically known as Spondyliosoma cantharus, is a species of fish belonging to the family Sparidae. This fish is commonly found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, from Norway and the North Sea to Senegal, including the Mediterranean Sea.
Description & Characteristics
The Spondyliosoma cantharus is a relatively large fish, reaching a maximum size of 60.0 cm. Its body is oval-shaped, with a deep, compressed profile. The Black Seabream boasts a distinctive coloration, sporting a dark brown to black back, often with a yellowish or greenish hue. Its sides are silvery, transitioning into a white belly. A prominent black spot is present on the base of the dorsal fin. These fish have small, sharp teeth, adapted for their diet of invertebrates and algae.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Spondyliosoma cantharus prefers rocky and sandy bottoms, often found in association with kelp forests. Its depth range extends from 5.0 to 300.0 meters, indicating its adaptability to various marine environments. The species is commonly found in the neritic zone, the area of the ocean that lies above the continental shelf. It is prevalent in the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the eastern Atlantic Ocean.
Taxonomy
The species Spondyliosoma cantharus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Sparidae. The Teleostei class encompasses a vast majority of bony fish, characterized by their advanced skeletal structure and diverse adaptations. The Eupercaria incertae sedis order reflects its uncertain placement within the broader taxonomic framework. The Sparidae family, commonly known as the sea breams, includes several other notable fish species, often recognized for their edible qualities.
Feeding
The Spondyliosoma cantharus is an omnivorous feeder, consuming a wide range of food sources. Its diet consists of algae, crabs, crustaceans, invertebrates, rock shrimps, and schrimps. This varied feeding strategy allows the Black Seabream to thrive in diverse environments, contributing to its wide distribution and ecological importance.
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