John Dory

The John Dory is a predatory fish that is highly sought after for its firm, white flesh and distinctive taste.

John Dory (Zeus faber) is a popular species of fish that is found in the waters of the eastern Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Mediterranean and Black Seas. It is a predatory fish that is highly sought after for its firm, white flesh and distinctive taste. In this article, we will explore the appearance, habitat, fishing, culinary uses, and conservation efforts surrounding the John Dory.

Appearance 

The John Dory has a unique and distinctive appearance. It is a flat, round fish that can grow up to 70 cm in length and 3 kg in weight. Its body is silver-grey in color, with a large, dark spot on each side that is said to resemble the thumbprint of St. Peter. The John Dory has a flat head and a large mouth with sharp teeth, which it uses to catch its prey.

Habitat 

The John Dory is typically found in shallow coastal waters, around rocky areas and wrecks, but can also be found in deeper waters up to 200 meters. They are commonly found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, from Norway down to the western coast of Africa, as well as the Mediterranean and Black Seas.

Fishing 

The John Dory is a popular fish for both commercial and recreational fishing. They can be caught using a variety of fishing methods, including rod and reel, spearfishing, and trawling. The John Dory is typically caught in the summer months, between May and September.

Culinary

The John Dory is a highly prized fish for its delicate and sweet flavor, which is similar to that of sole or turbot. Its firm, white flesh is excellent for grilling, frying, or baking. It is often served in upscale restaurants and is a favorite of chefs around the world.

Conservation 

While the John Dory is not considered to be endangered, it is important to fish sustainably to ensure that stocks remain healthy. In some areas, fishing regulations have been put in place to limit the amount of John Dory that can be caught in a given season. Additionally, efforts have been made to reduce the bycatch of other marine species during John Dory fishing, such as dolphins and sea turtles.