How to Identify Bald Glassy Perchlet

To identify Bald Glassy Perchlet (Ambassis gymnocephalus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Translucent to silvery-white, often with a faint yellowish or greenish tinge. A distinct silvery lateral stripe may be present. The internal organs are often visible through the transparent body.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Head largely scaleless, giving a 'bald' appearance., Body highly compressed and translucent., Large eyes relative to head size., Two distinct dorsal fins, the first with spines and the second with soft rays.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with VII-VIII spines, the second with I spine and 9-10 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is typically higher than the second.

Tail fin

Caudal fin deeply forked.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are moderately long and pointed, with 13-15 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with III spines and 9-10 soft rays. Pelvic fins thoracic, with I spine and 5 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Scaleless Head

   The most distinguishing feature is the absence of scales on the top of its head, which is clearly visible and gives it a smooth, 'bald' appearance.

2. 2

   Translucent Body

   Its body is largely transparent, allowing internal organs and the vertebral column to be seen, especially in live specimens.

3. 3

   Two Dorsal Fins

   Possesses two clearly separated dorsal fins, the first spiny and the second soft-rayed, a characteristic of the Ambassidae family.

4. 4

   Size

   Typically grows to a maximum standard length of about 10-12 cm, making it a relatively small fish.

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