How to Identify Yellowfin Trevally

To identify Yellowfin Trevally (Carangoides ferdau), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-white to silvery-blue dorsally, fading to white or silvery-yellow ventrally. Often has 5-7 indistinct, broad, dark vertical bands on the upper body, especially in juveniles. Fins are typically yellow, with the caudal fin being distinctly bright yellow. A small, dark spot may be present on the upper operculum.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Bright yellow caudal fin and other fins (especially in adults)., Deeply compressed, ovate body., Lateral line with a moderately long anterior arch and a posterior straight section containing 24-32 scutes., Snout relatively blunt.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8 spines, the second with 1 spine and 26-33 soft rays. The anterior lobe of the second dorsal fin is moderately elevated.

Tail fin

Deeply forked, bright yellow.

Pectoral fin

Long and falcate (sickle-shaped), extending beyond the origin of the anal fin. Contains 19-21 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 21-26 soft rays. Pelvic fins are relatively short.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Caudal Fin Color

   The most prominent identifying feature is the bright yellow, deeply forked caudal (tail) fin, especially in adult specimens.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Observe the deep, compressed, ovate body and the silvery-white to silvery-blue coloration, often with a yellowish wash on the lower flanks and belly. Faint vertical bands may be visible.

3. 3

   Lateral Line Scutes

   Count the scutes (enlarged, keeled scales) on the straight posterior section of the lateral line. Carangoides ferdau typically has 24-32 scutes, which can help differentiate it from similar species.

4. 4

   Pectoral Fin Length

   Note the long, falcate pectoral fin that extends beyond the origin of the anal fin.

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