Alphestes afer

Sea bass

  • Mutton hamlet

Distribution

  • The tropical Atlantic

Environment and movement of the diurnal species

  • The species is generally observed in seagrass among algae or phanerogams.
  • The species is generally motionless in its environment
  • The species is generally found on or close to the seafloor.
  • The species can be found between 2 and 30 Meters.
  • Uncommon Species
  • Hides among algae.

Environment and movement of the nocturnal species

  • The species is generally observed in seagrass among algae or phanerogams.
  • The species is generally seen moving in its environment.
  • The species is generally found on or close to the seafloor.

General behaviour of the species

  • The species is territorial
  • Species generally living in a group
  • Hides among algae.
  • The animal is rather indifferent to the diver, though it remains on its guard

General characteristics of the species

  • Maximum size : 33 cm
  • The animal is a hunter low in the food chain.
  • Diet : -
  • The animal can show variable colouring
  • The animal changes colour like a chameleon
  • The animal is a protandrous transsexual

Relationship with humans

  • The species can be eaten but is of no particular culinary interest
  • The species is exploited in the following sector(s) :
    • -Sport or local fishing