How to Identify Pinecone fish

To identify Pinecone fish (Cleidopus gloriamaris), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is typically bright yellow to orange, with the edges of the large, heavily armored scales outlined in black, creating a striking reticulated pattern. The fins are often yellowish. The bioluminescent organs are located on either side of the lower jaw, appearing as small, yellowish-green spots.

Scale type

ganoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large, rigid, overlapping scales that give a pinecone-like appearance., Bioluminescent organs (photophores) on the lower jaw., Large head with a relatively small mouth., Strong, sharp spines on the dorsal fin.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 5-7 strong, sharp spines, the second with 12 soft rays. The spines are capable of being locked erect.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is truncate to slightly emarginate.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively small and rounded, with 13-15 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, with a single strong spine and 3-4 soft rays. The pelvic spine is also capable of being locked erect.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Armor

   The most distinctive feature is the heavy, interlocking, pinecone-like scales. No other fish in its range has such prominent and rigid scale structure.

2. 2

   Coloration

   The bright yellow/orange body with black-edged scales is highly characteristic.

3. 3

   Bioluminescence

   Look for the small, yellowish-green light organs on either side of the lower jaw, especially visible in dim light or at night.

4. 4

   Fin Spines

   The strong, lockable spines in the dorsal and pelvic fins are a key identifier.

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