The European Seabass – Dicentrarchus labrax is a species of fish belonging to the family Moronidae. It is commonly found in coastal waters of the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. This species is known for its culinary value, with its delicate flavor making it a prized catch for anglers and a popular choice in restaurants.
Description & Characteristics
The European Seabass – Dicentrarchus labrax is a distinctive fish with a robust, fusiform body. They possess a slightly compressed head and a large mouth, featuring a sharp pointed jaw. A prominent feature of this species is its dorsal fin, which is divided into two sections: a spiny anterior portion and a soft posterior portion. The coloration of this fish varies depending on its habitat, with individuals typically displaying a silvery-grey hue with a darker back and a lighter belly. They can reach a maximum size of 103.0 cm, making them one of the larger species within the Moronidae family.
Habitat and Occurrence
The European Seabass – Dicentrarchus labrax is a euryhaline species, meaning it can tolerate a wide range of salinity levels. It is typically found in coastal waters, estuaries, and lagoons, with a depth range extending from 10.0 to 100.0 meters. This species thrives in temperate waters with a preference for areas with rocky bottoms, seagrass meadows, and sandy substrates. The European Seabass – Dicentrarchus labrax is a common inhabitant of the Northeast Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Norway to Morocco, and the Mediterranean Sea, where it is prevalent in both the Western and Eastern basins. It is particularly abundant in areas where there is a significant influx of freshwater, such as estuaries and river mouths.
Taxonomy
The European Seabass – Dicentrarchus labrax is classified under the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Moronidae. This species belongs to the order Eupercaria incertae sedis, which encompasses a diverse range of ray-finned fishes. It is further categorized into the Moronidae family, which comprises a group of primarily coastal and estuarine fish species, including other notable members like the Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) and the White Seabass (Atractoscion nobilis).
Feeding
The European Seabass – Dicentrarchus labrax is a carnivorous fish with a diverse diet. Its feeding habits are primarily based on the availability of prey in its environment, with a preference for crustaceans, fish, and cephalopods. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a wide variety of prey, including crabs, crustaceans, fish (small fish), fish larvae, hermit crabs, krill, rock shrimps, and sepia. The European Seabass – Dicentrarchus labrax is known for its hunting skills and its ability to ambush prey, often relying on its sharp senses and swift movements to capture its food.
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