How to Identify Fat greenling

To identify Fat greenling (Hexagrammos otakii), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Highly variable, ranging from mottled brown, green, grey, to reddish, often with irregular dark blotches and spots that provide camouflage. Males often display brighter coloration during breeding season. The belly is typically lighter.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Five prominent lateral lines on each side of the body, a key characteristic of the genus Hexagrammos., A single, long dorsal fin deeply notched, with a spiny anterior portion and a soft-rayed posterior portion., A fleshy cirrus (small flap) above each eye., Large, robust head with a relatively large mouth.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 19-22 spines followed by 20-24 soft rays, deeply notched between the spiny and soft-rayed portions.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins with 18-20 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins, with one spine and five soft rays. Anal fin has 20-24 soft rays, lacking spines.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Lateral Lines

   Count the lateral lines; Hexagrammos otakii consistently has five lateral lines on each side, which is a definitive characteristic for the genus and helps distinguish it from other similar-looking fish.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin

   Observe the single, long dorsal fin. Note the deep notch separating the spiny anterior part from the soft-rayed posterior part. The spine and ray counts can be used for precise identification.

3. 3

   Supraorbital Cirri

   Look for a small, fleshy cirrus (flap) located directly above each eye. This is a common feature among greenlings.

4. 4

   Body Coloration and Pattern

   While variable, the mottled patterns of browns, greens, and reds, often with darker blotches, are typical. This camouflage helps them blend into their rocky and algal surroundings.

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