Atlantic pomfret

D-Brachsenmakrele; GB-Atlantic pomfret; DK-Havbrasen; PL-Brama; EST-Atlandi merilatikas; RU-Атлантический морской лещ; FIN-Merilahna; S-Havsbraxen

Characters

1) Head profile rounded.
2) Long, sickle-like pectoral fins.
3) Pectoral, pelvic and dorsal fins originated about at the same height.
●) Dorsal- and anal fins with scales.
●) Laterally compressed, height body; uniformly black (or blackish-silvery).
Usually 40 to 55 cm, max. up to 70 cm length.

Similar species

Rough pomfret - profile of head flat to convex; pelvic fin clearly in front of dorsal fin origin.

Big-scale pomfret - anterior part of dorsal and anal fins elongated.

Silver pomfret - dorsal and anal fins originating about at same level; diameter of eye larger than lenght of mouth.

Biology

Undertakes larger migrations; occurs in small swarm also near the water surface, rarely near the coast; prefers continental slopes. Spawning season in August and September in bigger depths; young individuals presumably present in deeper water layers.

Diet

Feeds on smaller fish and crustaceans.

Importance

Is caught with long-lines in 90 to 100 m depths; mainly in Spain offered fresh or frozen. Also serves as baith in swordfishing.