How to Identify Bombay Duck

To identify Bombay Duck (Harpadon nehereus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Translucent to pale grey or brownish, often with a silvery sheen on the sides. The fins are typically dusky or translucent.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Long, slender, and soft body, almost gelatinous to the touch., Large, deeply cleft mouth extending beyond the eye, armed with numerous sharp, recurved teeth., Prominent adipose fin., Large eyes., Absence of scales on the body, or very minute, deciduous scales.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is rayed, and the second is a small, fleshy adipose fin located far back on the body, above the anal fin.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively long and narrow pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins, and have 8 rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a very elongated, soft, and somewhat flabby body, almost eel-like but with distinct fins.

2. 2

   Mouth and Teeth

   Observe the exceptionally large mouth that extends well past the eye, filled with numerous sharp, needle-like teeth.

3. 3

   Adipose Fin

   Presence of a small, fleshy adipose fin near the tail, a characteristic feature of lizardfishes.

4. 4

   Scales

   Note the absence of prominent scales; the skin appears smooth or with very minute, easily detached scales.

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