Fin's Fish Guide
The St Helena comber (Serranus sanctaehelenae) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The St Helena comber is a small seabass (Serranidae) that occurs around the remote island of St Helena in the southern Atlantic. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate body with brown crossbars and a pale belly. As a bottom-oriented ambush hunter it shelters among rocks and seizes small fish and crustaceans. Like many seabasses it is a simultaneous hermaphrodite. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the St Helena comber?
The St Helena comber has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the St Helena comber live?
The St Helena comber lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Congo, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, St Helena, Ascension I.
How big does the St Helena comber get?
The St Helena comber grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the St Helena comber dangerous to humans?
No, the St Helena comber is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the St Helena comber edible?
Yes, the St Helena comber is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Serranus
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the St Helena comber?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the St Helena comber is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone