The Zebra Seabream, scientifically known as Diplodus cervinus, is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Sparidae. This seabream is a common sight in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean, where it can be found in rocky reefs and coastal waters. Its distinctive zebra-like stripes earned it its common name.
Description & Characteristics
The Zebra Seabream is a relatively large species, reaching a maximum size of 55.0 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed, with a deep, rounded snout and a single, strong dorsal fin. The most notable feature of this fish is its coloration: a series of alternating dark and light bands run vertically along its body, resembling the stripes of a zebra. These stripes can be quite prominent, particularly in juveniles, and they fade slightly in older individuals.
Habitat and Occurrence
Diplodus cervinus is a demersal fish, meaning it lives close to the seafloor. It prefers rocky reefs, seagrass beds, and other structures that offer shelter and foraging opportunities. This species can be found in a wide range of depths, from 30.0 meters to 300.0 meters. The Zebra Seabream is considered a common resident of the Mediterranean Sea, where it inhabits the neritic zone, a region characterized by the influence of sunlight and the proximity to the shore. Within the eastern Atlantic Ocean, it is found in the infralittoral zone, the area extending from the low tide mark to the upper limit of seaweed growth.
Taxonomy
The Zebra Seabream, Diplodus cervinus, belongs to the Sparidae family, which is a diverse group of fish commonly known as seabreams. This family is part of the Order Eupercaria incertae sedis, a group that is still being studied and classified by scientists. The Zebra Seabream, like all other seabreams, falls under the Class Teleostei, which comprises the vast majority of bony fish.
Feeding
The Zebra Seabream is an omnivorous fish, with a diet that includes both plant and animal matter. It feeds primarily on algae, seaweed, and various invertebrates. This fish uses its strong jaws and sharp teeth to crush hard-shelled prey like crustaceans and mollusks. Its diet can vary depending on availability and the specific environment it inhabits.
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