How to Identify Cape Hottentot

To identify Cape Hottentot (Pachymetopon blochii), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Generally silvery-grey to brownish-grey on the back, fading to a lighter, silvery belly. Often exhibits faint vertical bars or blotches, particularly when stressed or in certain habitats. Fins are typically dusky. Juveniles may have more pronounced markings. The coloration can be influenced by the environment, with individuals from rocky reefs often appearing darker than those from sandy areas.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Deep, compressed body, Small mouth with incisor-like teeth in the front and molar-like teeth posteriorly, Single dorsal fin with strong spines, Relatively large eyes

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 10-11 spines followed by 10-12 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 9-10 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a deep, laterally compressed body, characteristic of seabreams.

2. 2

   Mouth and Teeth

   Observe the relatively small mouth with distinct incisor-like teeth at the front and molar-like teeth further back, adapted for its omnivorous diet.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Note the silvery-grey to brownish-grey body, often with subtle vertical banding or blotches. Fins are generally dusky.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin

   The single dorsal fin has a prominent spiny anterior portion, longer than the soft-rayed posterior part.

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