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Atrobucca nibe, commonly known as the Teraglin or Blackmouth Croaker, is a demersal fish belonging to the family Sciaenidae (drums or croakers). It is characterized by its elongated, moderately compressed body, large mouth, and distinctive black lining of the mouth and gill covers. This species is a commercially important food fish in many parts of its range.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- Generally silvery-grey to brownish on the dorsal surface, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Fins are typically dusky or yellowish. The most distinctive feature is the jet-black lining of the mouth and gill cavity.
- Scale type
- ctenoid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Jet-black lining of the mouth and gill cavity (hence 'Blackmouth Croaker'), Large, oblique mouth extending to below the posterior margin of the eye, Two dorsal fins, deeply notched, Strongly ctenoid scales covering the body and head, A prominent lateral line that is slightly arched anteriorly and then straight to the caudal fin
- Dorsal fin
- Two dorsal fins, deeply notched; the first dorsal fin has 9-10 spines, and the second dorsal fin has 1 spine and 26-30 soft rays.
- Tail fin
- Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Pectoral fins are moderately long, typically reaching to or beyond the tip of the pelvic fins.
- Distinctive fins
- Anal fin with 2 spines and 7-8 soft rays. Pelvic fins thoracic.
Identification Tips
Mouth and Gill Cavity Coloration
The most definitive feature is the intense black pigmentation inside the mouth and gill covers. This is visible when the mouth is open or gills are flared.
Body Shape and Size
Elongated, moderately compressed body, typically reaching up to 60 cm in length, though larger specimens up to 100 cm have been recorded.
Dorsal Fins
Presence of two distinct dorsal fins, with the first being spiny and the second soft-rayed, separated by a deep notch.
Lateral Line
Observe the lateral line, which is prominent and curves slightly upwards anteriorly before straightening towards the tail.
Habitat
- Water type
- saltwater
- Depth
- Typically found in depths ranging from 20 to 200 meters, occasionally deeper.
- Environment
- Demersal, inhabiting continental shelves and slopes, often over sandy or muddy bottoms, and sometimes near rocky reefs or estuaries. They are known to form aggregations.
- Geographic range
- Indo-West Pacific, including the waters off Australia (primarily eastern and northern coasts), Southeast Asia, and parts of the Indian Ocean.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: expert
- Temperament: semi-aggressive
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: Not suitable for home aquaria due to size and specific habitat requirements.
- Temperature: Not applicable
- pH level: Not applicable
- Hardness: Not applicable
- Compatibility: Not applicable for aquaria.
- Special requirements: Not suitable for home aquaria.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Seasonal availability varies by region, often targeted during cooler months when they aggregate for spawning.
- Market price: Varies by region and season, generally considered a premium table fish.
- Commercial importance: high
- Taste: Mild, delicate, slightly sweet flavor.
- Texture: Flaky, moist, white flesh.
- Cooking methods: Baked, Grilled, Fried, Steamed, Pan-seared
- Nutritional value: Good source of lean protein and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Key Facts
Sound Productionbehavior
Like many members of the Sciaenidae family, Teraglin are capable of producing drumming or croaking sounds using specialized muscles vibrating against their swim bladder. These sounds are often associated with spawning or territorial displays.
Nocturnal Feederbehavior
Teraglin are primarily nocturnal feeders, preying on a variety of benthic and pelagic invertebrates and small fish. Their large eyes are adapted for low-light conditions.
Spawning Aggregationsbehavior
This species forms significant spawning aggregations, often in specific areas, which makes them vulnerable to targeted fishing efforts during these periods.
Commercial Importanceinteresting
Teraglin is a highly valued commercial fish, particularly in Australia, where it is a popular target for both commercial and recreational anglers due to its excellent eating qualities.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: edible
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions beyond standard fish handling (e.g., avoiding sharp fin spines). Not venomous.
Similar Species
Mulloway
Argyrosomus japonicus
Mulloway typically have a more silvery-bronze coloration, a less pronounced black mouth lining (if present, it's usually dusky rather than jet black), and a more pointed caudal fin in juveniles, becoming truncate with age. Mulloway also tend to grow significantly larger.
Other Croaker Species
Various Sciaenidae
Many other croaker species exist, but Atrobucca nibe is uniquely identified by its consistently jet-black mouth and gill cavity. Other croakers may have dusky mouths, but rarely the intense, uniform black of A. nibe.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Sciaenidae
- Genus
- Atrobucca
- Species
- Atrobucca nibe
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