How to Identify Sailor's Choice

To identify Sailor's Choice (Haemulon parrai), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is silvery-white to yellowish, often with a series of faint, narrow, horizontal yellow or golden stripes along the sides. The fins are typically yellowish. A distinctive dark spot is often present at the base of the pectoral fin. Juveniles may exhibit more pronounced stripes and a darker caudal fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Often has a dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin., Faint yellow or golden horizontal stripes on a silvery-white body., Yellowish fins., Large eyes relative to head size.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, deeply notched, with 12 spines and 15-17 soft rays.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 8-9 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Pectoral Fin Spot

   Look for a distinct dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin, though its intensity can vary.

2. 2

   Body Stripes

   Observe the faint, narrow, yellowish or golden horizontal stripes along the body, which are more prominent in some individuals.

3. 3

   Fin Coloration

   Note the generally yellowish coloration of the fins, especially the caudal and pectoral fins.

4. 4

   Mouth and Lips

   Like other grunts, they have thick lips and often produce a grunting sound by grinding their pharyngeal teeth.

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