How to Identify Mrigal

To identify Mrigal (Cirrhinus cirrhosus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Silvery body, darker dorsally and lighter ventrally. Fins are often dusky or reddish, especially the caudal fin.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Moderately elongated body, compressed laterally., Small, subterminal mouth with thin lips., No barbels (or sometimes a single minute maxillary barbel, often absent)., Large, distinct scales., Lateral line complete, with 40-45 scales.

Dorsal fin

Single, short dorsal fin with 12-14 rays (3-4 unbranched, 9-10 branched). Originates slightly anterior to the pelvic fin origin.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short, not reaching the pelvic fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 8-9 rays (2-3 unbranched, 6-7 branched). Pelvic fins with 9 rays (1 unbranched, 8 branched).

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth

   Small, subterminal mouth without prominent barbels (distinguishes it from Rohu which has two pairs of barbels, and Catla which has a large, upturned mouth).

2. 2

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Elongated, silvery body with a slightly arched back. The overall appearance is more streamlined than Catla and less robust than Rohu.

3. 3

   Scales

   Relatively large and distinct scales, with a complete lateral line typically having 40-45 scales.

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