to replace the grouper (E. marginatus). In addition, the high substitution rate may be favored by the high variety of fish species, the difficulties inherent in differential diagnosis and the overall lack of taxonomical expertise. Moreover, fish identification may be insufficient if there are overlapping features between taxa, as frequently occurs in many fish species. Furthermore, the high substitution rate may be favored by the depletion in some areas of highly appreciated species. In 2012, there was an overall decline in fish production:Italian seafood production amounted to 195 839 t, of which 25 167 tcame from Apulia