How to Identify Westralian Dhufish

To identify Westralian Dhufish (Glaucosoma hebraicum), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adults typically exhibit a silvery-grey to bronze coloration dorsally, fading to a lighter silver or white ventrally. Juveniles possess distinct dark vertical bands or blotches on their flanks, which fade with age. The fins are often dusky or yellowish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Deep, compressed body, Large, prominent eyes, often appearing golden or amber, Large, oblique mouth extending to below the eye, Strongly ctenoid scales, A prominent dark blotch or 'thumbprint' often present on the operculum (gill cover) in adults, though sometimes faint., Juveniles have distinct dark vertical bands that fade with maturity.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 8 spines and 10-11 soft rays. The spinous portion is robust, and the soft-rayed portion is higher.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large and rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, originating below or slightly behind the pectoral fin base. Anal fin has 3 spines and 9-10 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the deep, compressed body and silvery-grey to bronze color. Juveniles have distinctive dark vertical bands.

2. 2

   Eyes

   The large, prominent, often golden-amber eyes are a key characteristic.

3. 3

   Mouth

   Note the large, oblique mouth that extends to below the eye.

4. 4

   Opercular Spot

   Check for a dark 'thumbprint' blotch on the operculum, though its prominence can vary.

5. 5

   Fin Count

   Count the dorsal fin spines (8) and soft rays (10-11) and anal fin spines (3) and soft rays (9-10) for definitive identification, especially when distinguishing from other Glaucosoma species.

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