The Top Sand Grunt (Pomadasys incisus), also known as the bastard grunt or striped grunt, is a coastal marine fish found primarily in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, including the Mediterranean Sea and along the western coast of Africa. Recognizable by its silvery body and faint longitudinal stripes, this species inhabits sandy and rocky bottoms, often near estuaries and shallow waters. While not a major target for large-scale commercial fisheries, the top sand grunt is caught by artisanal and small-scale fishers, especially in countries such as Morocco, Senegal, Mauritania, and other West African nations, as well as Mediterranean countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece. The fish is typically sold fresh in local markets and is valued for its mild flavor. In these regions, the sand grunt contributes to the livelihoods of coastal communities, though it is generally considered a secondary catch alongside more commercially important species.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.