Zebra Sea Bream

Zebra Sea Bream or “Diplodus Cervinus”

An Article by Hannah Mackay with The Voice Fuerteventura

This is very striking fish that can be found here in the Canary Islands and especially around the Island of Los Lobos, which lies just off the coast of Corralejo,in the north of Fuerteventura. 

HABITS 

There are many species of Sea Bream and they are all part of the Sparidae family.  The Zebra Sea Breams Greek name is Diplodus Cervinus meaning double tooth.  

WHAT TO LOOK FOR 

This species of Sea Bream has two different kinds of teeth. Incisors are located at the front and are flat and sharp and used for cutting and biting. The molars are located at the back and used to crush the food. It is characterised by a pointed snout and thick lips. The body is convex and silver in colour with dark vertical brown bands. The Zebra Sea Bream is the largest of the Bream species and can reach up to 55cms in length. It is a slow growing and long living species and can live up to 17 years.  

BREEDING

They are Hermaphroditic meaning that they start their life as males and become females later on. For this reason the females are bigger than the males. The species reproduces in spring, summer and during this time they can become very aggressive challenging any species that it may encounter during this period. When they are young they prefer shallow and quiet living areas like, rocks and grass areas. They also change their habits with age. When young they are Omnivorous eating small invertebrates and seaweeds and as they grow up they change to carnivorous, eating foods such as Sea Urchins, worms and molluscs.

WHERE TO SPOT THEM

Unlike many of the other species of Sea Bream, the Zebra Sea Bream prefers to go it alone rather than form schools. It is a popular and common fish found here in the Canary Islands and can be found in abundance around the Island of Lobos. So, if you are out snorkelling in the crystal clear waters, then keep your eyes peeled as they may just make an appearance.