How to Identify Leerfish

To identify Leerfish (Lichia amia), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-grey to bluish-grey on the dorsal side, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Juveniles often have several dark vertical bands on their sides, which fade with age. The fins are typically dusky or yellowish.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, compressed body with a relatively small head., A prominent, curved lateral line that dips sharply below the pectoral fin., Two dorsal fins: the first with 6-8 short, free spines (often embedded in adults), and the second with 1 spine and 19-22 soft rays., Anal fin with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 17-19 soft rays., Large, deeply forked caudal fin., Mouth is large and terminal, with small, conical teeth.

Dorsal fin

First dorsal fin with 6-8 short, free spines (often embedded in adults); second dorsal fin with 1 spine and 19-22 soft rays. The anterior rays of the second dorsal fin are elongated, forming a distinct lobe.

Tail fin

Large, deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes, indicative of a fast-swimming pelagic species.

Pectoral fin

Relatively short and falcate (sickle-shaped).

Distinctive fins

The first dorsal fin spines are often very short and can be almost embedded in the flesh of larger adults, making them less obvious than in many other carangids. The elongated anterior lobe of the second dorsal and anal fins is characteristic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the elongated, compressed, silvery body with a bluish-grey back. Juveniles have distinct dark vertical bands that fade with age.

2. 2

   Dorsal and Anal Fins

   Note the two dorsal fins, with the first having short, often embedded spines. The anterior rays of the second dorsal and anal fins are elongated, forming distinct lobes.

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   Observe the strongly arched lateral line that dips sharply below the pectoral fin, a key characteristic of the Carangidae family.

4. 4

   Mouth

   The large, terminal mouth with small teeth is indicative of its predatory nature.

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