How to Identify Hardyhead Silverside

To identify Hardyhead Silverside (Atherinomorus lacunosus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Overall silvery, often with a darker dorsal surface and a distinct, broad, silvery-white to yellowish lateral band running from the pectoral fin base to the caudal fin base. The fins are typically hyaline (transparent) or slightly dusky.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two widely separated dorsal fins, Large eyes, Small, terminal mouth, Prominent silvery lateral stripe, Relatively large scales for a silverside

Dorsal fin

First dorsal fin with 5-9 spines; second dorsal fin with 1 spine and 8-11 soft rays. The two dorsal fins are distinctly separated.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short, inserted high on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fin base.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Lateral Stripe

   Look for the prominent, broad, silvery-white to yellowish lateral band that extends the length of the body. This is a key distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two distinctly separated dorsal fins. The first is spiny, and the second has one spine followed by soft rays.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Its slender, elongated, and somewhat compressed body is typical of silversides.

4. 4

   Head

   The 'hardyhead' refers to the relatively robust and somewhat flattened head compared to some other silverside species.

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