How to Identify Common Whiptail

To identify Common Whiptail (Macruronus novaezelandiae), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically iridescent blue-green to purplish-blue, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Fins are generally dusky.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Very elongated, tapering body ending in a pointed, whip-like tail (hence 'whiptail')., Large eyes, adapted for low-light conditions in deep water., Prominent lower jaw, slightly projecting beyond the upper jaw., Absence of a caudal fin; the second dorsal and anal fins merge with the pointed tail.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins: the first is short-based with 10-12 spines; the second is very long, extending almost to the tip of the tail, with 90-105 soft rays.

Tail fin

Absent as a distinct fin; the second dorsal and anal fins converge to form a pointed, whip-like caudal extremity.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small, positioned low on the body, with 15-17 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located anterior to the pectoral fins, with 7 rays. Anal fin is very long, originating just behind the anus, with 85-95 soft rays, merging with the second dorsal fin at the tail tip.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for the extremely elongated, tapering body that gives it a 'whiptail' appearance, distinct from other hake species.

2. 2

   Tail Fin

   The absence of a distinct, forked or rounded caudal fin is a key identifier; instead, the dorsal and anal fins merge into a pointed tail.

3. 3

   Eye Size

   Its relatively large eyes are indicative of its deepwater habitat.

4. 4

   Coloration

   The iridescent blue-green to purplish-blue dorsal coloration is characteristic.

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