How to Identify Rainbow Runner

To identify Rainbow Runner (Elagatis bipinnulata), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface dark blue to greenish-blue, fading to white or silvery on the belly. Two prominent, narrow, iridescent blue stripes run horizontally along the flanks, separated by a broader, bright yellow to yellowish-green stripe. Fins are typically yellowish.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two separate finlets behind the dorsal and anal fins., Streamlined, elongated body., Large, deeply forked caudal fin., Small, cycloid scales., Lateral line with a slight arch over the pectoral fin, then straight to the caudal peduncle.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins: the first with 6 spines, the second with 1 spine and 23-27 soft rays, followed by 2 separate finlets.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin with long, pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Short, falcate pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 1 spine and 18-20 soft rays, preceded by 2 detached spines, and followed by 2 separate finlets. Pelvic fins are relatively small.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the elongated, torpedo-shaped body with the distinctive iridescent blue and yellow stripes running horizontally along the sides. The dark blue/green back and white belly are also key.

2. 2

   Finlets

   The presence of two small, detached finlets behind both the second dorsal and anal fins is a definitive characteristic of this species within the Carangidae family.

3. 3

   Caudal Fin

   The deeply forked, large caudal fin with long, pointed lobes is indicative of a fast-swimming pelagic fish.

4. 4

   Lateral Line

   Observe the lateral line, which has a gentle arch above the pectoral fin before straightening towards the tail.

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