Genus Centropristis refers to a group of fish species commonly known as sea basses or black sea basses. These fish belong to the family Serranidae and are native to the western Atlantic Ocean. Some of the synonyms for Genus Centropristis include Centropristes, Chub, Southern sea bass, Rock bass, and Black bass. These fish are typically found in rocky coastal areas and have a distinctive black coloration with a white underbelly. They are popular among anglers for their delicious meat and are also commercially harvested. Black sea basses play an important ecological role as they are predators on smaller fish species and help to maintain a balance in marine ecosystems.