Dentex
Dentex is a genus of marine fish belonging to the family Sparidae, commonly known as sea breams. These fish are found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Indo-Pacific region. They are characterized by their robust bodies, large scales, and powerful jaws with prominent canine teeth, hence the name “Dentex” which derives from the Latin word for “tooth”.
Common Names
Common names for fish belonging to the genus Dentex vary depending on the specific species and region. Some of the most common names include:
- Dentex: This is the most common name used for the genus as a whole.
- Common dentex: This name is specifically used for the species Dentex dentex.
- Black seabream: This name refers to the species Dentex gibbosus.
- Goldband seabream: This name is used for the species Dentex tumifrons.
Characteristics
Dentex species are generally large fish, with some species reaching lengths of over 1 meter. They are characterized by the following features:
- Robust body: Their bodies are typically deep and compressed, giving them a somewhat "stocky" appearance.
- Large scales: They have large, easily visible scales covering their bodies.
- Prominent canine teeth: Their powerful jaws are equipped with prominent canine teeth, which they use to crush hard-shelled prey.
- Coloration: They can have a variety of color patterns, ranging from silvery-grey to reddish-brown, often with darker markings or stripes.
Environments
Dentex species are found in a variety of marine habitats, including:
- Rocky reefs: They are commonly found in rocky reefs, where they can find shelter and ambush prey.
- Seagrass beds: Some species are also found in seagrass beds, where they can feed on invertebrates and small fish.
- Sandy bottoms: They can also inhabit sandy bottoms, where they forage for food.
They are typically found in depths ranging from a few meters to over 100 meters.
References
For more information on Dentex, consult the following reliable sources: