How to Identify Ornate threadfin bream

To identify Ornate threadfin bream (Nemipterus hexodon), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Body silvery-pink, fading to white ventrally. Five to six prominent yellow stripes run longitudinally along the body, with the uppermost stripe often extending onto the dorsal fin. A distinct yellow blotch or band is present on the operculum. Fins are yellowish, with the dorsal fin having a yellow margin and the caudal fin often having a yellow upper lobe and a reddish-orange lower lobe. The prolonged upper caudal fin ray is typically yellow.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Five to six prominent yellow longitudinal stripes on the body., A distinct yellow blotch on the operculum., Upper caudal fin ray prolonged into a filament, typically yellow., A small, pointed canine tooth on each side of the upper jaw.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with X spines and 9 soft rays. The spinous portion is continuous with the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin, with the upper lobe prolonged into a distinct, often yellow, filament. The lower lobe may be reddish-orange.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively long and pointed, with 16-17 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are long, reaching beyond the anus, with 1 spine and 8 soft rays. Anal fin has III spines and 7 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Stripes

   Look for 5-6 distinct yellow longitudinal stripes on the silvery-pink body. This is a key distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Caudal Fin Filament

   The prolonged, yellow upper ray of the caudal fin is a definitive characteristic of Nemipterus hexodon.

3. 3

   Opercular Spot

   A prominent yellow blotch or band on the operculum (gill cover) helps in identification.

4. 4

   Canine Teeth

   Careful examination of the mouth reveals a small, pointed canine tooth on each side of the upper jaw.

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