How to Identify Atlantic Pigfish

To identify Atlantic Pigfish (Orthopristis chrysoptera), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-bronze to grayish-blue dorsally, fading to silver or white ventrally. Body covered with numerous small orange-brown to yellowish-brown spots that often form wavy longitudinal lines. Fins are typically yellowish, sometimes dusky.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Small, oblique mouth with thick lips., No canine teeth., Preopercle serrated., Lateral line scales typically 50-54., Distinctive grunting sound produced when stressed or handled.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12-13 strong spines and 15-17 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion, with a deep notch between them.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins, reaching beyond the anus.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 11-12 soft rays. Pelvic fins thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Pattern

   Look for the silvery-bronze body with numerous small orange-brown spots forming wavy lines along the sides. This pattern is quite distinctive among grunts.

2. 2

   Mouth and Teeth

   Observe the small, oblique mouth and the absence of large canine teeth, which helps distinguish it from some other grunt species.

3. 3

   Fin Spines

   Count the dorsal fin spines (12-13) and anal fin spines (3). The strong, sharp spines are characteristic of the grunt family.

4. 4

   Grunting Sound

   If handled, the fish will often produce a characteristic grunting sound, a definitive identifier for the species and family.

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