How to Identify Scaled Sardine

To identify Scaled Sardine (Harengula jaguana), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery sides, darker bluish-green dorsal surface. A faint dark spot may be present behind the upper operculum.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Strongly compressed body, Large, deciduous scales (easily shed), A distinct mid-ventral keel formed by scutes, Absence of a dark spot on the shoulder (distinguishes from some similar species)

Dorsal fin

Single, short-based dorsal fin located mid-body.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small, low-set pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins originate anterior to the dorsal fin origin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Scales

   Observe the large, easily shed scales, which are a key characteristic. The lateral line is absent or very faint.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Note the strongly compressed, silvery body. The belly has a sharp, serrated keel formed by specialized scales (scutes).

3. 3

   Fin Origin

   The pelvic fins originate anterior to the dorsal fin origin, a useful distinguishing feature from some other clupeids.

4. 4

   Absence of Shoulder Spot

   Unlike some other sardine species, Harengula jaguana typically lacks a prominent dark spot on the shoulder behind the gill cover.

Explore Scaled Sardine