How to Identify Silver Seatrout

To identify Silver Seatrout (Cynoscion nothus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Overall silvery, often with a darker, iridescent blue-green dorsal surface fading to silvery-white on the sides and belly. Fins are typically dusky or yellowish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Absence of large canine teeth in the upper jaw (a key differentiator from Spotted Seatrout and Weakfish)., A single row of small, uniform teeth in the upper jaw., Relatively small mouth., Lateral line curves gently upward over the pectoral fin., No spots on the body or fins (distinguishes from Spotted Seatrout).

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is spiny with 9-11 spines, and the second is soft-rayed with 1 spine and 25-29 soft rays. The two fins are distinctly separated.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is typically truncate to slightly emarginate (straight to slightly forked).

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short, not reaching the anus.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 2 spines and 10-12 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Teeth

   Check the upper jaw for the absence of large, prominent canine teeth. Silver Seatrout have a single row of small, uniform teeth.

2. 2

   Coloration and Spots

   Note the overall silvery body without any distinct spots on the body or fins. This differentiates it from the Spotted Seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus).

3. 3

   Dorsal Fins

   Observe the two distinctly separated dorsal fins. The first is spiny, and the second is soft-rayed.

4. 4

   Size

   Silver Seatrout are generally smaller than other Cynoscion species, typically reaching a maximum length of about 35 cm (14 inches) and rarely exceeding 45 cm (18 inches).

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