Species GuidePicnic Seabream
Picnic Seabream
Acanthopagrus cuvieri
Sparidae family · Coastal
Least Concern
A robust inshore seabream very common in UAE estuaries, mangrove creeks and shallow coastal waters. The UAE's go-to seabream for shore anglers, it is highly tolerant of turbid and low-salinity conditions. Often targeted from bridges, jetties and creek banks.
Species Stats
Max Length
45 cm
Max Weight
2 kg
Depth Range
1–40 m
Diet
Molluscs, crustaceans, worms
Habitat
Estuaries, mangroves, inshore sandy and muddy areas
Local Name (Arabic)
شعام خور
Fun Facts
- 1
Among the most commonly caught seabream from UAE shore positions.
- 2
Highly tolerant of salinity fluctuations, enabling it to venture deep into mangrove creeks.
- 3
A popular target for UAE beginners and experienced anglers alike.
Research Papers
Found In
Abu DhabiDubaiSharjahAjmanUmm Al QuwainRas Al Khaimah
Quick Info
FamilySparidae
HabitatCoastal
EdibilityGood
CoastPersian Gulf
Dangernone
Related Species (Sparidae)
Last reviewed June 2026Sources: MOCCAE, EAD, FAO species profiles