Blotched Picarel
NameBlotched Picarel
Scientific NameSpicara maena
Common NamesBlotched Picarel, Mackerel Picarel
FamilyCentracanthidae
OriginMediterranean Sea, Black Sea, Eastern Atlantic
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)120
Max Size (Inches)9.8
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)60-75
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesOther peaceful wrasses, Gobies, Damselfish (non-aggressive species), Cardinalfish, Other small, non-aggressive marine fish
Description
The Blotched Picarel is a schooling marine fish found in the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and Eastern Atlantic. It typically inhabits seagrass beds and sandy bottoms, feeding on small invertebrates and algae. This species is known for its silvery body, often with faint blotches or stripes, and can change sex during its life cycle.
