How to Identify Yellowtail Trevally

To identify Yellowtail Trevally (Carangoides fulvoguttatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-grey to brassy dorsally, fading to silvery-white ventrally. Characterized by numerous small, bright yellow to golden spots scattered over the body, particularly above the lateral line. The caudal fin is typically bright yellow, and other fins may have yellowish tinges.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Numerous small yellow to golden spots on the body, Bright yellow caudal fin, Steeply arched dorsal profile, Large, dark opercular spot often present

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8 spines, the second with 1 spine and 20-24 soft rays. The anterior rays of the second dorsal fin are elongated.

Tail fin

Deeply forked, bright yellow.

Pectoral fin

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

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 16-19 soft rays. Lateral line strongly arched anteriorly, becoming straight posteriorly, with 20-30 scutes on the straight section.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Spots

   Look for the distinctive small, bright yellow to golden spots scattered over the upper half of the body. The number and intensity of these spots can vary.

2. 2

   Caudal Fin Color

   The bright yellow caudal (tail) fin is a key identifying feature, especially in adults.

3. 3

   Body Shape and Profile

   Observe the compressed, oval body shape with a steeply arched dorsal profile and a relatively straight ventral profile.

4. 4

   Pectoral Fin Length

   Note the long, sickle-shaped pectoral fins that extend well past the origin of the anal fin.

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