How to Identify Horse-eye Jack

To identify Horse-eye Jack (Caranx latus), 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 distinct black spot is usually present on the upper operculum (gill cover). Juveniles may have faint vertical bars on their sides.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Very large eyes, giving it the 'horse-eye' moniker., Deep, compressed body., Strongly forked caudal fin., Prominent scutes (bony plates) along the lateral line, particularly on the posterior section., A small, dark spot on the upper 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, powerful caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long, falcate (sickle-shaped) pectoral fins, 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. Pelvic fins are relatively small.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Eyes

   Look for the exceptionally large eyes, which are disproportionately large compared to other Caranx species.

2. 2

   Opercular Spot

   A distinct, small black spot on the upper part of the gill cover is a key identifier.

3. 3

   Lateral Line Scutes

   Observe the prominent, bony scutes along the posterior section of the lateral line, which are characteristic of jacks.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Note the deep, compressed body profile, which is typical for the genus Caranx.

5. 5

   Pectoral Fin Length

   The long, falcate pectoral fins extending past the anal fin origin are a good distinguishing feature.

Explore Horse-eye Jack