How to Identify Ray's Bream

To identify Ray's Bream (Cephalus brama), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adults are typically dark grey to blackish on the dorsal side, fading to a lighter grey or silvery-white on the ventral side. Fins are dark. Juveniles may have a more silvery appearance.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Deep, laterally compressed body, Large eyes, positioned anteriorly, Single, long dorsal fin extending almost the entire length of the back, Strongly forked caudal fin, Large, rough scales that are often shed easily

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 36-40 soft rays, originating above the pectoral fin base and extending almost to the caudal peduncle. No spines.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, with upper and lower lobes of similar length.

Pectoral fin

Long and falcate (sickle-shaped) pectoral fins, typically reaching beyond the origin of the anal fin.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small, located thoracically, beneath or slightly anterior to the pectoral fin base. Anal fin is long, similar in shape and length to the dorsal fin, with 29-35 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a very deep, compressed body, almost disc-like in profile, especially in larger individuals.

2. 2

   Dorsal and Anal Fins

   Note the single, very long dorsal fin and a similarly long anal fin, both lacking prominent spines.

3. 3

   Caudal Fin

   The deeply forked tail is a key identifier, indicative of its active pelagic lifestyle.

4. 4

   Coloration

   The dark grey to blackish dorsal coloration contrasting with a lighter belly is characteristic.

5. 5

   Scales

   The large, rough, and often easily shed scales can be a distinguishing feature upon handling.

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