How to Identify European Hake

To identify European Hake (Merluccius merluccius), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Silvery-grey on the dorsal side, fading to a lighter, almost white belly. The lateral line is distinct and often darker.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large head with a prominent lower jaw., Large eyes., Two dorsal fins: the first is short and triangular, the second is long and deeply notched., A single, long anal fin that mirrors the second dorsal fin., Absence of a barbel on the chin.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins. The first is short with 9-11 rays, the second is long with 36-40 rays and deeply notched.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively long and pointed pectoral fins, reaching beyond the origin of the anal fin.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, positioned anterior to the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Dorsal Fins

   Look for two distinct dorsal fins; the first is short and triangular, while the second is much longer and deeply notched, almost appearing as two separate fins.

2. 2

   Mouth and Jaw

   Observe the large mouth with a prominent lower jaw that extends beyond the upper jaw, indicating its predatory nature.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Note the silvery-grey back fading to a white belly, a common camouflage for demersal fish.

4. 4

   Absence of Barbel

   Unlike some other gadiform fish, Merluccius merluccius lacks a chin barbel.

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