January 15, 2025

Sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)

Sea bass , also known as European seabass, is a white fish that inhabits the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the most consumed fish in gastronomy due to its tender flesh, flavor, and versatility in the kitchen.

Scientific name: Dicentrarchus labrax
Family: Moronidae
Class: Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)
Medium weight: 0,5 to 12 kilograms
Average length: 30 to 100 centimeters

What is a Sea Bass?

The European seabass ( Dicentrarchus labrax ) is a fish belonging to the Moronidae family . This fish, with its elongated shape, silvery skin, and soft, white flesh, is highly valued in both sport fishing and cooking. It is also very common in fish farming, which ensures its availability and trade year-round.

In some regions, the European seabass is also popularly known as " Róbalo ." This white fish can live in both saltwater (marine) and brackish water (where fresh and saltwater mix, such as in estuaries and river mouths). This adaptability has allowed it to thrive in a wide variety of habitats.

Characteristics of the Sea Bass

Physical appearanceSea bass has an elongated, slightly laterally compressed body. Its skin is silvery with dark tones on the back, while the belly is lighter. They can grow up to 1 meter in length and weigh up to 12 kilograms. They typically measure between 25 and 60 cm and weigh up to 5 kg.
Adaptability: It is a robust fish that adapts to both salt and brackish waters.
Life expectancy: They can live between 15 and 20 years in natural conditions. However, their lifespan is usually shorter in the case of species raised in fish farms due to the controlled environment.

Types of Sea Bass

European Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) metabolism and gut health”)The most common and well-known, distributed in the northeast Atlantic, the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea. Highly prized for its white, tender meat.
Asian Seabass (Lateolabrax japonicus)Known as "Suzuki" in Japan. Found in the western Pacific. Similar to European sea bass, but smaller and with a slightly different flavor.
American Sea Bass (Morone saxatilis): Also known as “striped bass,” it is found on the Atlantic coast of North America and is highly prized in sport and commercial fishing.
Giant or Nile Seabass (Lates niloticus)Native to Africa, it lives in freshwaters like Lake Victoria. It can grow to large sizes and is often marketed under the same name due to its similarity.
Black Sea Bass (Centropristis striata): Known as “black sea bass,” it lives on the east coast of North America and is characterized by its firm flesh and mild flavor.

Nutritional values

nourisher	For 100 g
Energy (Kcal)	84
Proteins (g)	18
Total Lipids (g)	1,3
– Saturated Fatty Acids (g)	0,27
– Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (g)	0,48
– Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (g)	0,36
– Omega-3 (g)	0,279
– C18:2 Linoleic (Omega-6) (g)	0,031
Cholesterol (mg)	68
Carbohydrates (g)	0
Fiber (g)	0
Water (g)	80,7
Calcium (mg)	20
Iron (mg)	1,1
Iodine (µg)	7
Magnesium (mg)	26
Zinc (mg)	0,8
Sodium (mg)	69
Potassium (mg)	340
Phosphorus (mg)	410
Selenium (µg)	36,5
Thiamine (B1) (mg)	0,11
Riboflavin (B2) (mg)	0,16
Niacin (B3) (mg)	6,7
Vitamin B6 (mg)	0,2
Folates (B9) (µg)	3
Vitamin B12 (µg)	4
Vitamin C (mg)	Traces
Vitamin A (Retinol Eq.) (µg)	Traces
Vitamin D (µg)	Traces
Vitamin E (mg)	0,5

Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

Sea Bass Habitat and Fishing Season

Habitat

European seabass inhabits the temperate waters of the northeastern Atlantic , from Norway to Senegal, as well as the Mediterranean and Black Seas . It prefers shallow coastal waters, especially in areas with sandy or rocky bottoms.

Fishing Season

The best season for fishing for wild sea bass is between October and March , coinciding with their peak activity period. However, thanks to fish farms , this fish can be enjoyed year-round.