How to Identify Pink Maomao

To identify Pink Maomao (Caprodon longimanus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Predominantly pink to reddish-orange dorsally, fading to a lighter pink or whitish ventrally. Fins are often tinged with yellow or orange. Males may exhibit more intense coloration and distinct markings, such as a yellow or orange blotch on the operculum or a darker band along the dorsal fin base.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated pectoral fins, often reaching beyond the anal fin origin., Deeply forked caudal fin., Large eyes, adapted for low light conditions., Prominent dorsal fin with 10 spines and 19-21 soft rays., Anal fin with 3 spines and 8-9 soft rays.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with a spiny anterior portion (10 spines) and a soft-rayed posterior portion (19-21 soft rays). The soft-rayed portion is typically taller than the spiny portion.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Very long and pointed, extending significantly beyond the origin of the anal fin. This is a key diagnostic feature.

Distinctive fins

The elongated pectoral fins are the most distinctive fin feature, giving rise to its common name 'Longfin Perch'.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Pectoral Fins

   Observe the length of the pectoral fins; they are exceptionally long, often reaching past the anal fin origin. This is the most reliable distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Note the overall pink to reddish body color, which is consistent across individuals, though intensity may vary with depth and sex.

3. 3

   Caudal Fin

   Look for the deeply forked caudal fin, a characteristic shared with other Caprodon species but distinct from many other deep-water serranids.

4. 4

   Habitat and Depth

   Consider the capture depth and location. If found in deep, rocky reef environments in the Indo-Pacific, it strongly points to Caprodon longimanus.

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