How to Identify Redtail scad

To identify Redtail scad (Decapterus tabl), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface metallic blue to blue-green, fading to silvery white on the flanks and belly. The most distinguishing feature is the bright reddish caudal fin. A small, distinct black spot is present on the upper margin of the operculum.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, fusiform body, slightly compressed., Adipose eyelid well developed, covering most of the eye except for a central slit., Lateral line with a distinct anterior arch, becoming straight posteriorly., Scutes present along the straight posterior part of the lateral line, typically 30-40., Terminal mouth., Bright reddish caudal fin.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8 spines, the second with 1 spine and 29-33 soft rays, followed by a finlet of 1 spine and 1 ray.

Tail fin

Deeply forked, bright red.

Pectoral fin

Long and falcate, reaching beyond the origin of the second dorsal fin.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 2 detached spines anteriorly, followed by 1 spine and 25-28 soft rays, and then a finlet of 1 spine and 1 ray. Pelvic fins small.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Caudal Fin Color

   The most reliable identifier is the distinct bright red coloration of the caudal (tail) fin.

2. 2

   Finlets

   Presence of a single dorsal finlet and a single anal finlet posterior to the main dorsal and anal fins, respectively.

3. 3

   Lateral Line Scutes

   Count the scutes (hardened scales) along the straight posterior part of the lateral line; Decapterus tabl typically has 30-40.

4. 4

   Opercular Spot

   Look for a small, distinct black spot on the upper margin of the operculum (gill cover).

5. 5

   Body Shape

   Its elongated, torpedo-like body is characteristic of the Decapterus genus.

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