Pouting are found predominantly in European waters, especially around the south and west of the British Isles and in Scandinavian waters, although they can also be found in the Mediterranean and along the north African coast.

Pouting are a relatively short lived species, with the average lifespan thought to be around four years.

They forage for any food source they can find with marine worms, shellfish and dead fish all making up their diet.

[4] Due to their small size pouting are a source of prey for large species such as cod, bass and conger eels.

Due to their naturally short lifespan and early breeding age pouting are seen as a relatively sustainable fish to eat.