How to Identify Hawaiian Flagtail

To identify Hawaiian Flagtail (Kuhlia xenura), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Overall silvery body, often with a darker dorsal surface and lighter ventral side. Fins are generally translucent to dusky. The most striking feature is the caudal fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Deeply forked caudal fin with prominent black and white stripes or blotches on each lobe., Large eyes relative to head size., Slightly compressed body., Small, ctenoid scales.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, deeply notched, with 10 spines followed by 10-11 soft rays.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, with distinct black and white markings on the upper and lower lobes. Typically, two black bands separated by a white band on each lobe.

Pectoral fin

Moderately sized, clear to dusky.

Distinctive fins

The caudal fin pattern is the primary distinguishing feature.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Caudal Fin Pattern

   Look for the deeply forked tail with two distinct black bands separated by a white band on both the upper and lower lobes. This is the most reliable identifier.

2. 2

   Body Coloration

   Silvery body, often with a slightly darker back. Lacks prominent lateral lines or spots on the body itself.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin

   Observe the single, deeply notched dorsal fin with a clear distinction between the spiny and soft-rayed portions.

4. 4

   Habitat

   If encountered in Hawaiian nearshore waters, especially in rocky areas or estuaries, it is likely Kuhlia xenura.

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