Distribution:

Eastern Atlantic: Straits of Gibraltar to 15°N (rare southward 20°N), including Madeira and the Canary Islands; Mediterranean and northward to the Bristish Isles. Western Atlantic: New York, USA and northern Gulf of Mexico to Argentina, including the continental coast of the Caribbean Sea.

Diagnosis:

Dorsal spines (total): 12-12; Dorsal softrays (total): 10-10; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft-rays: 8-8. Pinkish silver with an indistinct yellow spot on each scale on about upper half of body, these spots giving a yellow-striped effect; a wedge of yellow across interorbital and some yellow on snout and upper lip; dorsal, caudal and pectoral fins pink.

Biology:

Found over rock, rubble, or sand bottoms (young frequently found on seagrass beds) down to about 250 m depth, often above 150 m. Feeds on crustaceans, fishes, and mollusks. Its toxic nature is uncertain. Marketed fresh and frozen.

Max. size: 91.0 cm

Environment: benthopelagic; depth range - 250 m

Climate: subtropical; 57°N - 38°S

Canary Islands country information: Name: Bocinegro, Palette