Common dentex

The common dentex (Dentex dentex) is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Sparidae, which includes the seabreams and porgies. This species is found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It is a highly valued food fish and is an important target species for fisheries and the population has shown large declines leading the International Union for Conservation of Nature to classify its conservation status as Vulnerable.

Distribution

The common dentex is found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean between the Bay of Biscay and Ras Nouadhibouin Mauritania, as well as the Canaries and Madeira. It is rare as far north as the British Isles. It is also found throughout the Mediterranean Sea and into the western Black Sea. This is a benthopelagic fish found at depths down to 200 m (660 ft), although commonest at 15 to 50 m (49 to 164 ft), over rocky substrates in inshore waters.