Blackspot picarel
📖 Overview
Blackspot picarel (Spicara melanurus) is a ray-finned fish of the family Sparidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in pelagic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 32.8 cm. It occurs at depths between 100 and 250 metres. With a trophic level of 3.5, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Physical description for Blackspot picarel is currently being compiled.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Blackspot picarel is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; pelagic-neritic; depth range 100 - 250 m , usually 100 - 250 m . Tropical; 18°N - 18°S, 26°W - 14°E south as Angola, but records south of Senegal need to be verified.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Blackspot picarel is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 19.1 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 444 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Blackspot picarel has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (lean white fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 5 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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