The Brown meagre (Sciaena umbra) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The brown meagre is a dark coastal fish of the family Sciaenidae reaching about 70 cm. The robust, bronze-brown body has yellow, dark-edged fins and an inferior mouth. Like other croakers the species can make drumming sounds with its swim bladder and has notably large ear-stones (otoliths). The brown meagre lives over rock and sand bottoms of the eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean and Black Sea, between 1 and 200 m, sheltering by day in caves and steep rocks. It hunts small fish and crustaceans at night. Fishing pressure has left the species assessed as Near Threatened across much of its range.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown meagre?
The Brown meagre has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Brown meagre live?
The Brown meagre lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Brown meagre get?
The Brown meagre grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 28 cm.
Is the Brown meagre dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown meagre is harmless to humans.
Is the Brown meagre edible?
Yes, the Brown meagre is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sciaena
More from the family Sciaenidae
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