How to Identify Murray hardyhead

To identify Murray hardyhead (Craterocephalus fluviatilis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Silvery body, often with a faint lateral stripe. Dorsal surface can be olive-brown to grey, fading to silvery-white on the belly. Fins are generally translucent.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two distinct dorsal fins, well separated., Relatively large eyes., Slender body., Absence of a lateral line.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is small with 4-7 spines, the second is larger with 1 spine and 6-9 soft rays. The two fins are distinctly separated.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are moderately sized, located high on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small, located abdominally, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays. Anal fin has 1 spine and 8-11 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Dorsal Fins

   Look for two clearly separated dorsal fins. The first is spiny and much smaller than the second, which has a spine and soft rays.

2. 2

   Body Coloration

   Observe the silvery body with a darker back and lighter belly. A faint lateral stripe may be present.

3. 3

   Eye Size

   Note the relatively large eyes in proportion to its head.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults are typically small, rarely exceeding 7 cm in total length.

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