Meagre

D-Adlerfisch, Umberfisch; GB-Meagre, croaker; DK-Ørnefisk, orłoryb; PL-Kulbin; EST-Harilik hõbekotkaskala; RU-Обыкновенный серебристый горбыль; FIN-Kotkakala; S-Havsgös

Characters

1) Low positioned large terminal mouth.
2) Second dorsal fin more than twice as long as first one.
3) Lateral line extending on to caudal fin.
●) Colouration on sides silvern, abdomen white, back grey-brown.
Usually about 50 cm, max. up to 200 cm length.

Similar species

European seabass - two equally long dorsal fins; black spot on operculum; caudal fin forked.

Biology

Occurs often near wrecks or around rocks over sandy grounds, but also near the surface. Young individuals live in schoals: Meagres often follow swarms of mullets. Spawning season in spring and summer near the coast. Migrates depending on temperatures.

Diet

Feeds on fish and swimming crustaceans.

Importance

Important food fish, as well as sport fish.