Koester

Acanthistius sebastoides

Not Evaluated Saltwater

Max Length

35.0 cm

Color

Orange-red to brownish-red body with …

Depth Range

1-30m

Family

Anthiadidae

About

A koester (grouper-like fish) from South African rocky reef systems, with mottled brownish pattern. Inhabits inshore rocky reefs; a predator of fish and crustaceans. Known in South Africa as 'koester'.

Physical Description

Measurement	Value
Maximum Length	35.0 cm
Depth Range	1-30m

Coloration

Orange-red to brownish-red body with fine pale spotting scattered across the flanks; strong resemblance to rockfishes; fins are orange-red; South African endemic; belly pale pinkish-orange.

Habitat & Distribution

Inshore rocky reef systems of South Africa (particularly the Cape region) at 5-40m depth. Temperate southeastern Atlantic marine habitat.

Water Type

Saltwater

Depth Range

1-30m

Geographic Range

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Edibility & Culinary

Taste

A South African reef fish targeted by recreational anglers; firm, white flesh with a mild flavor. Consumed locally along the Cape coast; best pan-fried, grilled, or prepared in fish curries.

Fishing Information

Game Fish

Yes

Taxonomy

Order	Perciformes/Serranoidei
Family	Anthiadidae
Species	Acanthistius sebastoides

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat Koester?

A South African reef fish targeted by recreational anglers; firm, white flesh with a mild flavor. Consumed locally along the Cape coast; best pan-fried, grilled, or prepared in fish curries.

How big does Koester get?

Koester can grow up to 35.0 cm long.

Where is Koester found?

Southeastern Atlantic off southern Africa, from the Western Cape through the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal coasts of South Africa. Inhabits rocky subtidal reefs and kelp bed margins in temperate South African inshore waters. Inshore rocky reef systems of South Africa (particularly the Cape region) at 5-40m depth. Temperate southeastern Atlantic marine habitat.

What family does Koester belong to?

Koester (Acanthistius sebastoides) belongs to the family Anthiadidae in the order Perciformes/Serranoidei.