How to Identify Humpnose bigeye bream

To identify Humpnose bigeye bream (Monotaxis grandoculis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adults are typically silvery-grey to brownish-grey dorsally, fading to white or silvery ventrally. They often have a dark blotch at the base of the pectoral fin. Juveniles may exhibit dark bars or spots on their flanks, which fade with age. The fins are generally translucent or dusky.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large, prominent eyes, especially in juveniles., A distinct hump on the snout, particularly pronounced in larger adults, giving it the 'humpnose' appellation., A relatively deep body, compressed laterally., A single, continuous dorsal fin., Small, conical teeth in the jaws, with no canines or molars, distinguishing it from many other Lethrinids.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with X spines and 10 soft rays.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins, typically with 13-14 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays. Anal fin has III spines and 9-10 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Snout profile

   Look for the characteristic hump on the snout, especially in larger individuals. This feature becomes more pronounced with age.

2. 2

   Eye size

   The eyes are notably large relative to the head size, a key identifier for 'bigeye' breams.

3. 3

   Teeth

   Observe the teeth if possible; Monotaxis grandoculis has small, conical teeth, lacking the canines or molars found in many other emperor species.

4. 4

   Pectoral fin base

   A dark blotch at the base of the pectoral fin is often present and can aid in identification.

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