How to Identify Ladyfish

To identify Ladyfish (Elops machnata), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Silvery body, darker bluish-green dorsally, fading to bright silver on the flanks and belly. Fins are typically dusky or yellowish.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, cylindrical body, Large, terminal mouth with small, sharp teeth, Large eyes, Deeply forked caudal fin, Single dorsal fin located midway along the back, Lateral line present and prominent, Transparent leptocephalus larval stage

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 20-25 soft rays, positioned posterior to the pelvic fins.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, with two lobes of equal size.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively small, located low on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins. No adipose fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for the slender, torpedo-shaped body, which is characteristic of the Elopidae family.

2. 2

   Mouth and Eyes

   Note the large, terminal mouth with small teeth and the prominent, large eyes.

3. 3

   Caudal Fin

   The deeply forked tail is a key identifier.

4. 4

   Lateral Line

   A distinct lateral line runs along the length of the body.

5. 5

   Coloration

   The overall silvery appearance with a darker back is typical.

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