Sparus aurata - Gilthead Bream

Taxonomy

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Sparidae

In France this sea fish is marketed as Dourade, and it is an expensive luxury food. In Wales gilthead bream can be found all around the shores, but most particularly in the south.

Fish to more than 3lb (1.4kg) are sometimes caught by anglers, although the average is usually around 1 to 2lb (0.5 to 1kg).

The gold spot just behind the gill cover is the main distinguishing feature of the gilthead bream.