The Bowen snapper (Argyrops spinifer) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The king soldier bream is a porgy of the family Sparidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a deep, reddish to silvery-pink body; juveniles bear a few elongated anterior dorsal-fin rays. It lives on a variety of bottoms: juveniles in very shallow, sheltered bays and larger fish in deeper water on the continental shelf. With powerful jaws and molar-like teeth it crushes hard-shelled bottom prey such as molluscs, crustaceans and echinoderms. The king soldier bream is an important commercial fish with tasty flesh. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bowen snapper?
The Bowen snapper has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Bowen snapper live?
The Bowen snapper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Bowen snapper get?
The Bowen snapper grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Bowen snapper dangerous to humans?
No, the Bowen snapper is harmless to humans.
Is the Bowen snapper edible?
Yes, the Bowen snapper is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Argyrops
More from the family Sparidae
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