The Picarel is one of the most abundant and recognisable small fish of the region, and it belongs to the Centracanthidae family. The body is elongated and spindle-shaped with a silver colour that leans toward grey on the back and white on the belly. The most characteristic feature that makes it easy to identify is a bold black square or rectangular spot on the side of the body. This spot is found just below the beginning of the lateral line and above the pectoral fin, while fishers often refer to it as the mother spot.

The species exhibits intense sexual dimorphism, especially during the breeding season. Females maintain their silver colour while the males transform by acquiring flamboyant colours with iridescent blue and green lines on the body and fins.

This is a benthopelagic species that forms massive and dense schools. It lives mainly over Posidonia oceanica meadows and muddy seabeds at depths that usually range from 15 to 170 metres. During the day, the schools move actively near the bottom or in midwater while searching for food. At night, they disperse and remain inactive near the seabed to rest.

The Picarel is a small fish. The common length of capture ranges from 8 to 15 centimetres. Male individuals are always larger than females, and they can reach a maximum length of 20 centimetres.

Breeding takes place from February to May. The males become territorial and dig small nests in the sand or mud using their tails. They attract the females to spawn in the nests, and then the males guard the eggs with self-sacrifice until they hatch.

Fisheries & Economic Value

The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies the Picarel as a species of Least Concern. Scientific studies have shown that it plays a vital ecological role as a link for energy transfer from plankton to larger predators such as hake and John Dory. Furthermore, research indicated that the sex change is an energy-intensive process, and the fish are more vulnerable during this period.