Common Name: Annular bream

Scientific Names: Diplodus annularis

Description: Grows to about 10cm in the shallow waters of Gozo but usually smaller. It has a deep-bodied shape similar to the other two common seabream (White and Two-banded) but it is rather petit in comparison. The silvery body has a prominent black tail band, as does the Saddled Seabream (4), but the yellow colour to the pelvic and anal fins and yellow tinge to upper parts of the head are distinctive.

Distinctive Features: The pectoral and anal fins are yellow and it often has a yellow tinge to the top of the eye.

Abundance: As individual fish or in small groups of 2 or 3. Less numerous than the White and Two -banded bream but once you have your eye in they are found at every site.

Habitat & Behaviour: Found close to the seabed over both rocky and sandy sea beds.

Reaction to Snorkellers & Divers: Wary of surface diving snorkellers but less wary of divers.

Other Notes: Refer to and compare with other seabream (2, 3, 4) if unsure of identification.

Text: Bob Earll
Photo: Bob Earll
Video: Bob Earll