Drums

Canary drum (Umbrina canariensis)

The Canary drum (Umbrina canariensis) belongs to the family Sciaenidae (drums) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen in small groups. It reaches about 40 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Canary drum (Umbrina canariensis), a Red Sea fish of the drums family
Photo: iNaturalist / Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Scientific nameUmbrina canariensis
FamilyDrums (Sciaenidae)
Common name (IT)Ombrina canaria
Common name (EN)Canary drum
Maximum size40 cm
Depth1–50 m
DistributionRed Sea and Indo-Pacific
IUCN statusLC — Least Concern

Description

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

Where it lives

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

  • Red Sea
  • Indo-Pacific

Frequently asked questions

What family does the Canary drum belong to?
The Canary drum (Umbrina canariensis) belongs to the family Sciaenidae (drums).
Is the Canary drum dangerous?
It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
Is the Canary drum endemic to the Red Sea?
No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
How big does the Canary drum get?
It reaches a maximum length of about 40 cm.

Explore the Canary drum in 3D in the interactive atlas →