How to Identify Common Snook

To identify Common Snook (Centropomus undecimalis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Silvery-gray to yellowish-brown on the dorsal side, fading to silver or white on the flanks and belly. Fins are typically yellowish. The most distinguishing feature is a prominent black lateral line.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Prominent black lateral line extending from the operculum to the caudal fin., Prognathous lower jaw (lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw)., Two widely separated dorsal fins., Large, oblique mouth., Body is somewhat compressed laterally.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is spiny with 8 spines, the second is soft-rayed with 1 spine and 10-12 soft rays. The two fins are distinctly separated.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively small and located low on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located directly below the pectoral fins, and have one spine and five soft rays. Anal fin has 3 spines and 6-8 soft rays, with the second anal spine being notably stout.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Lateral Line

   The most definitive characteristic is the prominent, unbroken black lateral line that runs from the gill cover to the tail.

2. 2

   Jaw Structure

   The lower jaw protrudes noticeably beyond the upper jaw.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fins

   Two distinct dorsal fins, with the first being spiny and the second soft-rayed, are clearly separated.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   An elongated, somewhat compressed body with a relatively large head.

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