Meagre

Meagre is valued for its firm and flavorful meat, which is similar to that of sea bass. The fish can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried, and is often served with lemon, olive oil, and herbs. It is also used in soups and stews.

Meagre, also known as Argyrosomus regius, is a species of fish belonging to the Sciaenidae family. It is a popular game fish that is found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Meagre is valued for its firm and flavorful meat, making it a popular target for commercial and recreational fishing.

Appearance

Meagre has a large, elongated body that is silver in color with a hint of blue or green on its back. It has a distinctive pair of barbels on its chin and a large, toothed mouth. The fish can grow up to 2 meters in length and weigh over 100 kilograms, although most caught fish range between 20-40 kilograms.

Habitat

Meagre is a demersal species, meaning it lives near the sea floor. It is typically found in rocky and sandy areas near the coast, at depths ranging from 10-200 meters. Meagre is commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea, particularly in the Western basin, but it can also be found in the Atlantic Ocean from the British Isles to South Africa.

Fishing and Seasonality

Meagre is primarily caught using bottom longlines, nets, and traps. Fishing is typically done from boats, with the use of sonar equipment to locate fish. The season for meagre fishing varies depending on the region, but it is generally from late spring to early autumn.

Culinary

Meagre is a popular fish in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and Italy. It is valued for its firm and flavorful meat, which is similar to that of sea bass. The fish can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried, and is often served with lemon, olive oil, and herbs. It is also used in soups and stews.

Conservation

Meagre populations have declined due to overfishing and habitat destruction, and the species is now considered endangered. As a result, there are strict regulations on meagre fishing in the Mediterranean, including size limits and fishing quotas. In recent years, there have also been efforts to breed meagre in captivity for restocking purposes.