How to Identify Whitefin Trevally

To identify Whitefin Trevally (Caranx mate), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Generally silvery-grey to bluish-green dorsally, fading to silvery-white ventrally. Juveniles may have 5-7 dark vertical bands on their flanks. A distinct black spot is usually present on the upper operculum. The fins are typically dusky to hyaline, with the caudal fin often yellowish.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

A prominent black spot on the upper operculum (gill cover)., The posterior curved part of the lateral line contains 36-50 scutes (bony plates)., The soft dorsal fin lobe is often white or pale, giving rise to its common name., The breast is fully scaled., The upper jaw extends to below the anterior margin of the eye.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8 spines, the second with 1 spine and 22-25 soft rays. The anterior lobe of the second dorsal fin is elongated.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and falcate (sickle-shaped), extending beyond the junction of the curved and straight parts of the lateral line.

Distinctive fins

The white or pale anterior lobe of the second dorsal fin is a key identifier.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Opercular Spot

   Look for a distinct black spot on the upper part of the gill cover. This is a consistent feature.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin Lobe

   Observe the anterior lobe of the second dorsal fin; it is often noticeably paler or white, especially in live specimens, which gives the species its common name.

3. 3

   Lateral Line Scutes

   Count the scutes on the straight posterior section of the lateral line. Caranx mate typically has 36-50 scutes. This requires close examination.

4. 4

   Breast Scaling

   The breast area (ventral region between the pectoral fins) is fully scaled, unlike some other Caranx species where it may be partially naked.

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