How to Identify Korean Aucha Perch

To identify Korean Aucha Perch (Coreoleuciscus splendidus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is generally silvery-grey to olive-brown dorsally, fading to a lighter, silvery-white ventrally. A prominent dark lateral stripe runs from the snout to the caudal fin base. During breeding season, males develop vibrant red, orange, and blue hues, particularly on the fins and operculum, and often display nuptial tubercles on the head and snout. The fins are typically translucent with some dark pigmentation.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Prominent dark lateral stripe, Vibrant breeding coloration in males, Small, subterminal mouth, Relatively large eyes, Forked caudal fin

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 8-9 branched rays. Originates slightly anterior to the pelvic fin origin.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are moderately sized, positioned ventrally.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located beneath the dorsal fin. Anal fin is relatively short, with 7-8 branched rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Lateral Stripe

   Look for a distinct, dark lateral stripe running along the side of the body from the snout to the caudal fin base. This stripe is a key identifier.

2. 2

   Breeding Coloration

   During the spawning season, males exhibit brilliant red, orange, and blue colors, especially on the fins and operculum, along with nuptial tubercles on the head. This makes them easily distinguishable from other species and non-breeding individuals.

3. 3

   Mouth Position

   The small, subterminal mouth is characteristic, indicating its feeding habits on benthic invertebrates.

4. 4

   Fin Shape

   The deeply forked caudal fin is a consistent feature across all life stages.

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