Serraninae

Serraninae is a subfamily within the family Serranidae, a group of fishes commonly known as sea basses and groupers. In many classifications, Serraninae comprises a diversity of genera that are typically small to medium-sized, predatory marine fishes occupying coastal and reef-associated habitats. Genera such as Serranus and Diplectrum are often placed in Serraninae, though the exact composition of the subfamily has varied with taxonomic revisions of Serranidae.

Description and biology: Members of Serraninae generally have laterally compressed bodies, with a large mouth and sharp teeth suited to capturing prey. The dorsal fin usually comprises spiny and soft-rinned sections, and coloration ranges from plain to cryptic patterns that aid ambush predation. They are carnivorous, feeding on smaller fishes and invertebrates. Reproduction is typically by external fertilization, with eggs and larvae that are often pelagic in early life stages.

Distribution and habitat: Serraninae species occur in temperate to tropical seas worldwide, with a strong presence in shallow coastal zones, rocky reefs, coral habitats, and seagrass beds. They are typically demersal, schooling or solitary, and may display territorial behavior related to feeding and breeding.

Taxonomy and phylogeny: The circumscription of Serraninae has been revised in light of molecular studies, and some authorities treat Serraninae as a distinct subfamily within Serranidae while others adjust its delimitation or placement relative to Epinephelinae and Anthiadinae. Despite taxonomic changes, the group remains a core component of serranid diversity.

See also: Serranidae, Epinephelinae, Anthiadinae, sea basses, groupers.