Brown Meagre

Overview

The Brown Meagre (Argyrosomus regius), or "Maigre," is a large, migratory bony fish belonging to the drum and croaker family. It is widely recognized for its significant size and its role in both commercial and recreational fisheries across its range.

Distribution & habitat

This species is native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean, spanning from Norway to the Congo, and is also found throughout the Mediterranean and Black Seas. It has additionally migrated into the Red Sea via the Suez Canal. Adults are typically found in inshore and shelf waters, moving between surface, mid-water, and bottom environments, while juveniles often inhabit estuaries and coastal lagoons.

Appearance

The Brown Meagre features an elongated, fusiform body with a relatively large head and small eyes. Its coloration is generally pearly-silver to brownish, with a distinctive yellow-gold mouth cavity. The lateral line is prominent and extends onto the caudal fin, and the second dorsal fin is significantly longer than the first.

Biology & behavior

These fish are oceanodromous, meaning they undertake long-distance migrations, often in response to seasonal temperature changes. They are known for their ability to produce a characteristic "grunting" sound by vibrating muscles against their gas bladder. During the spawning season, they congregate inshore, particularly in estuaries, though some populations may spawn in coastal areas.

Feeding

As predators, they feed primarily on schools of fish, such as clupeids and mugilids, as well as various swimming crustaceans. Their feeding activity is highly influenced by water temperature, often decreasing significantly when temperatures fall outside their preferred range.