How to Identify Pacific Crevalle Jack

To identify Pacific Crevalle Jack (Caranx caninus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically dark blue to bluish-green, fading to silvery-white or yellowish on the flanks and belly. A prominent black spot is present on the upper operculum and often a smaller black spot at the base of the pectoral fin. Juveniles may have vertical bars.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large, prominent eyes, Steeply sloped head profile, Strongly forked caudal fin, Prominent scutes (bony plates) along the lateral line, especially on the caudal peduncle, Black spot on the operculum

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8 spines, the second with 1 spine and 19-22 soft rays. The anterior rays of the second dorsal fin are elongated.

Tail fin

Deeply forked and powerful, characteristic of fast-swimming pelagic predators.

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 16-18 soft rays. The anterior rays of the anal fin are also elongated, mirroring the second dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Robust, deep, and compressed body with a steep head profile.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Dark blue-green dorsally, silvery-white ventrally, with a distinct black spot on the operculum and often at the pectoral fin base.

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   Strongly arched anteriorly, becoming straight posteriorly, with 23-35 strong scutes on the straight portion.

4. 4

   Fins

   Long, falcate pectoral fins and a deeply forked caudal fin. Elongated anterior rays on the second dorsal and anal fins.

5. 5

   Teeth

   Upper jaw with an outer series of strong canines and an inner band of smaller teeth; lower jaw with a single series of strong canines.

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