How to Identify Spotted smooth-hound

To identify Spotted smooth-hound (Mustelus lenticulatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface grey to grey-brown, covered with numerous small, distinct white spots. Ventral surface is white. Spots are generally smaller and more numerous than in some other smooth-hound species.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Numerous small, distinct white spots on the dorsal surface, Slender body, Flattened head with a short, rounded snout, Absence of fin spines, Asymmetrical caudal fin with a well-developed ventral lobe

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins of similar size. The first dorsal fin originates over the pectoral fin bases. The second dorsal fin is slightly smaller than the first and originates over the pelvic fin bases.

Tail fin

Heterocercal (asymmetrical) caudal fin with a distinct ventral lobe and a subterminal notch on the dorsal lobe.

Pectoral fin

Broad and triangular, moderately large.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively small. Anal fin is present and smaller than the second dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Dorsal Spotting

   Look for numerous, small, distinct white spots scattered across the grey to grey-brown dorsal surface. This is the most reliable distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Snout Shape

   Observe the short, rounded snout, which is characteristic of Mustelus species.

3. 3

   Absence of Spines

   Confirm the absence of spines anterior to the dorsal fins, differentiating it from dogfish species (Squalidae).

4. 4

   Teeth

   The teeth are small, blunt, and pavement-like, adapted for crushing crustaceans and mollusks, rather than sharp, pointed teeth for tearing fish.

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