saddled seabream
Oblada melanura
Characteristics
Scientific name
Size
Depth range
Nutrition
Behave
Frequency in Cyprus
Protection status
Native/Immigrant
Oblada melanura
Usually 15 to 30 cm, with a maximum length of around 40 cm.
0 to 60 metres, most commonly found between 1 and 30 metres.
Omnivorous; feeds on algae, plankton, small crustaceans, worms, and other invertebrates.
Sociable, often found in small to large schools.
Very common, year-round.
Not threatened (IUCN: Least Concern)
Native Mediterranean species.
The saddled seabream (Oblada melanura) is one of the most common species of seabream found in the Mediterranean Sea. It is easily recognized by the distinctive black spot, bordered by a pale ring, at the base of its tail. These silvery, shimmering fish often form large schools and are regularly encountered by divers around coastal reefs, rocky formations, and shipwrecks in the waters of Cyprus. They are particularly common at shallow coastal dive sites.
Where to Find in Cyprus: Dive Sites & Habitat
The shelduck is part of the natural fish fauna of the Mediterranean and is widespread around Cyprus year-round. It prefers rocky coastal areas, seagrass meadows, artificial reefs, and wrecks, where it can be found at depths ranging from a few meters to about 60 meters. It is particularly frequently observed between 5 and 25 meters. Since it often travels in schools and is not very shy, it is one of the fish species that divers can see on almost every coastal dive. They are very often found at Green Bay , as well as near the Caves and Cyclops dive sites.
As a native Mediterranean species, it is an important part of the natural fish community off Cyprus.
Behavior & Key Features Underwater
The Black Seabream (Spondyliosoma cantharus) is an active and sociable schooling fish, often seen moving through open water above reefs and seagrass meadows in loose groups. Around divers, it is generally curious or indifferent and will often remain visible even when approached carefully. This makes it an excellent subject for observation and underwater photography.
Black seabream are particularly common along rocky reefs, over Posidonia seagrass beds, and around wrecks and artificial reefs. During the day, they spend much of their time searching for food and are frequently observed swimming just above the seabed or in mid-water.
Black seabream are completely harmless to humans. They have no venomous spines, are not poisonous, and show no aggressive behaviour towards divers. Thanks to their abundance, distinctive appearance, and high visibility, they are considered one of the characteristic fish species encountered during dives in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)
How can you identify the common bream?
The shelduck has a silver body and a striking black spot with a light border directly in front of the tail fin.
Can you feed shelducks?
No. Wild shelducks should not be fed. Feeding them alters their natural behavior, can lead to an unnatural dependence on humans, and disrupts the ecological balance.
How often are shelducks seen in Cyprus?
Very common. It is one of the most regularly observed fish species on the coasts and diving sites of Cyprus and can be found all year round.
Written by
Daniel "KID"
Sophia