How to Identify Short-bodied anchovy

To identify Short-bodied anchovy (Encrasicholina punctifer), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically translucent to light brown or greenish-blue, fading to silvery white on the flanks and belly. A prominent silvery lateral stripe runs from behind the operculum to the caudal fin base.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Short, blunt snout, Maxilla (upper jaw) tip extends beyond the anterior margin of the preoperculum but usually not to the posterior margin, A distinct silvery lateral stripe, No pre-pelvic scutes, Small, deciduous scales

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 12-15 soft rays, originating slightly anterior to the anal fin origin.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short, with 12-14 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small, located abdominally, with 7 rays. Anal fin is long, with 15-19 soft rays, originating below the posterior half of the dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Maxilla length

   The tip of the maxilla extends beyond the anterior margin of the preoperculum but usually does not reach the posterior margin. This is a key differentiator from some other anchovy species.

2. 2

   Silvery stripe

   Presence of a prominent, well-defined silvery stripe along the flanks, which is often iridescent.

3. 3

   Body depth

   Relatively slender body, with body depth typically 4.5-5.5 times in standard length.

4. 4

   Fin ray counts

   Dorsal fin rays 12-15; Anal fin rays 15-19; Pectoral fin rays 12-14. These counts can help distinguish it from closely related species.

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