Bass fish is a popular saltwater game fish found in various parts of the world. Known for their fighting abilities and delicious taste, bass fish are highly sought after by recreational anglers and commercial fishermen alike. There are several species of bass fish, with each having its own unique characteristics and habitat preferences. Bass fish are important members of the marine ecosystem, playing a significant role in maintaining the food chain and balancing the ecosystem.
| Characteristics | Description |
| Name | Bass fish |
| Scientific Name | Lates calcarifer |
| Colour | Generally silver with a greenish tinge on the back |
| Found in which coastal waters of India | Found in the coastal waters of India, especially in brackishwater habitats such as estuaries, mangroves, and lagoons |
| States its eaten as food | Consumed in various parts of India, especially in the coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala |
| IUCN status | Near Threatened |
Appearance
Bass fish has a slim and elongated body, with a pointed head and a large mouth. Its body color varies from grey to dark blue or greenish-brown, with a white underbelly. The fish can grow up to 1 meter in length and can weigh up to 15 kilograms.
Habitat
Bass fish is mainly found in the brackish waters of estuaries, lagoons, and mangrove swamps. They are also found in the open sea, near rocky areas, and coral reefs. In India, bass fish is commonly found in the coastal waters of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and West Bengal.
Food
Bass fish is a carnivorous fish species that feeds on a variety of marine animals such as crustaceans, mollusks, and smaller fish. They are also known to feed on squid and octopus.
Species found in Indian waters – List
There are two main species of bass fish found in Indian waters:
Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer): Also known as Barramundi, it is one of the most popular fish species in India. It is found in the brackish waters of the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. The Asian seabass is highly valued for its flavor and texture and is an important fish species in aquaculture.
Giant Sea Perch (Lates mariae): This fish species is found in the brackish waters of the Bay of Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and the Gulf of Mannar. It is a slow-growing fish species that can reach up to 1 meter in length and can weigh up to 15 kilograms.
Which parts of India it is eaten
Bass fish is widely consumed in coastal regions of India, especially in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. It is also a popular fish species in West Bengal and Odisha.
Importance in marine ecosystem
Bass fish is an important fish species in the marine ecosystem as it plays a significant role in the food chain. It feeds on smaller fish and crustaceans, controlling their population, and is also preyed upon by larger fish species such as sharks and tuna.
IUCN status of Indian species
The Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer) is classified as ‘Least Concern’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), while the Giant Sea Perch (Lates mariae) is classified as ‘Vulnerable’ due to overfishing and habitat loss. It is important to regulate fishing activities and conserve their habitats to ensure the sustainability of these fish species.
