How to Identify Spinycheek bass

To identify Spinycheek bass (Centropomus pectinatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Silvery-gray to olive-brown dorsally, fading to silvery-white ventrally. A prominent dark lateral line extends from the operculum to the caudal fin. Fins are typically dusky or yellowish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Deeply notched dorsal fin, Prominent, spiny operculum (gill cover), Large, protractile mouth with a projecting lower jaw, Lateral line extends onto the caudal fin, Second anal fin spine does not reach the caudal fin base when depressed

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8 spines, the second with 1 spine and 10-11 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is deeply notched.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Short and rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 6-7 soft rays. The second anal fin spine is robust but does not extend past the caudal fin base when depressed. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Opercular Spines

   The most distinguishing feature is the presence of numerous, small, sharp spines on the posterior margin of the operculum (gill cover), which are easily felt by running a finger forward along the gill cover.

2. 2

   Second Anal Fin Spine

   The second anal fin spine is robust but relatively short, not reaching the caudal fin base when depressed. This differentiates it from some other snook species where this spine is longer.

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   A prominent dark lateral line extends clearly onto the caudal fin, a characteristic shared by all snook species but useful for general identification.

4. 4

   Body Proportions

   Its elongated body and distinctly projecting lower jaw are typical of the Centropomus genus.

Explore Spinycheek bass