Other names: Black bream, Southern bream , Blue-nosed bream
The Southern black bream, or Acanthopagrus butcheri, is a versatile fish found in coastal areas, rivers, and estuaries of southern Australia. It thrives in both brackish and freshwater environments, often inhabiting river mouths and estuaries. Known for its adaptability to varying salinity levels, this species is highly valued by anglers for its challenging fight and is also a popular fish in local markets.
Other names
Black bream, Southern bream , Blue-nosed bream
Length
~24" (max 60)
Weight
~2" (max 4)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
14-20° F
Blood worms
Clams
Crabs
Mullet
Pilchards
Prawns
Sand worms
Worms
YabbiesAlways open
10
28 cm
Total length
Southern black bream favor brackish waters, often in coastal rivers and estuaries
They are commonly found over seagrass beds, especially during juvenile stages
The species can adapt to freshwater environments, occasionally moving upstream
Their diet consists of shellfish, worms, crustaceans, small fish, and algae
Spawning occurs upstream in sheltered waters, usually within estuaries
The spawning period can vary depending on the specific estuary
Larvae and juveniles are abundant in shallow waters, particularly over seagrass beds
The species' reproductive behaviors are consistent, though details about sex inversion remain uncertain
