How to Identify Peamouth

To identify Peamouth (Mylocheilus caurinus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Silvery sides and belly, olive to dark green back. During spawning, males develop a prominent red or orange stripe along the lateral line and around the mouth, and often have nuptial tubercles on the head and fins. Juveniles may have a dark lateral stripe.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Small, subterminal mouth with a slightly projecting snout., No barbels., Large, cycloid scales., Prominent red or orange coloration around the mouth during breeding season.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 8-10 rays.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth Coloration

   Look for the distinctive red or orange coloration around the mouth, especially during the spring spawning season. This is a key identifier for adults.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Color

   Its slender, silvery body with an olive-green back is characteristic. The absence of barbels helps distinguish it from some other minnow species.

3. 3

   Scale Size

   Peamouth have relatively large scales compared to some other cyprinids in their range.

4. 4

   Lateral Line

   The lateral line is complete and slightly decurved. During spawning, a red stripe may appear along it.

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