Long-finned Sea Bream
Argyrops spinifer
Sparidae family · Demersal
UAE Fishing Regulations
February Breeding Season Ban — Goldlined Seabream & King Soldier Bream
Ban period: February 1 – February 28 — no fishing or trade of this species
Scope: Fishing and trade/sales banned — including imported stock
Authority: MOCCAE · Ministerial Decision No. 1 of 2021
Known locally as Sha'ari, this prized sea bream is one of the most highly regarded table fish in the UAE. Its elongated dorsal fin spines give it a distinctive silhouette. Found on both the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman coasts.
Species Stats
Max Length
75 cm
Max Weight
7 kg
Depth Range
10–200 m
Diet
Crustaceans, molluscs, small fish
Habitat
Sandy and rocky seabed, reefs, inshore and offshore waters
Local Name (Arabic)
شعري
Fun Facts
- 1
The "long-finned" name comes from the greatly elongated third and fourth dorsal spines.
- 2
Highly prized in UAE fish markets — often sold at premium prices.
- 3
Protandrous hermaphrodite: born male, some change to female as they grow larger.