Appearance and lifestyle:
White steenbras (Lithognathus lithognathus), sometimes also known as pignose grunters, are large, silvery fish and prominent members of the Kelp Forest Exhibit. They can grow to about 1m in length and weigh as much as 30kg, which makes them popular targets for anglers. They have pointed noses and tiny teeth at the front of their jaws, with larger molars towards the back. White steenbras mature at around five years old and are commonly bisexual.
In their natural habitat, these fish are fairly solitary. At certain times of year, however, large groups may gather or “run” along the coast, for example up the east coast of South Africa.
Habitat:
According to A Guide to the Common Sea Fishes of Southern Africa by Rudy van der Elst (Struik, 1985), white steenbras prefer shallow waters rather than deeper seas and are often found in estuaries. They can survive for extended periods in almost-fresh water. They live in both the Atlantic and Indian oceans.
Diet:
Their diet is varied and may include molluscs, crabs, shrimps, and worms.
Threats:
White steenbras are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Their WWF SASSI status is Red (“Don’t buy”). Major threats include overfishing and habitat loss.