How to Identify Green Chromide

To identify Green Chromide (Etroplus suratensis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is typically olive-green to greenish-brown, often with a yellowish tinge on the ventral side. It is adorned with 6-8 vertical dark bands, which can be more prominent or faded depending on the fish's mood and environment. The most striking feature is the presence of numerous iridescent, pearly white to bluish-white spots scattered across the body and fins, giving it the 'Pearlspot' moniker. The fins are generally dusky, sometimes with a reddish tint, especially during breeding.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Laterally compressed, deep body., Numerous iridescent pearl-like spots on the body and fins., 6-8 faint to prominent vertical dark bands., Small, protractile mouth., Large, prominent eyes.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 15-19 spines and 10-15 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is slightly emarginate to rounded.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 12-15 spines and 8-11 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a distinctly deep, laterally compressed body, typical of cichlids.

2. 2

   Coloration and Spots

   The most definitive feature is the olive-green body covered with numerous iridescent, pearl-like spots. These spots are usually more prominent than in similar species.

3. 3

   Vertical Bands

   Observe the 6-8 vertical dark bands on the flanks, which can vary in intensity.

4. 4

   Fin Structure

   Note the single, long dorsal fin with a prominent spiny anterior portion and a slightly emarginate caudal fin.

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