How to Identify Panamic Porkfish

To identify Panamic Porkfish (Anisotremus taeniatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adults typically have a silvery-white to yellowish body with two prominent, broad, dark brown to black horizontal stripes. The upper stripe runs from the snout through the eye to the caudal peduncle, and the lower stripe runs from below the eye to the base of the caudal fin. Fins are generally yellowish. Juveniles exhibit more pronounced dark stripes and often have a black spot at the base of the caudal fin and another on the dorsal fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two prominent dark horizontal stripes on a light body, Thick, fleshy lips, Deeply notched dorsal fin, Large scales

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, deeply notched, with 12-13 spines and 16-18 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located directly below the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Stripes

   Look for the two distinct, broad, dark horizontal stripes on a light body. This is the most reliable field mark for adults.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Observe the compressed, deep body typical of grunts, with a relatively small head and thick lips.

3. 3

   Fin Structure

   Note the deeply notched dorsal fin with a prominent spiny anterior portion.

4. 4

   Juvenile Markings

   Juveniles often have more intense striping and may display a black spot at the caudal fin base and on the dorsal fin, which fade with age.

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