How to Identify Common pandora

To identify Common pandora (Pagellus erythrinus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Overall reddish-pink to silvery-pink, often with iridescent reflections. The dorsal side is typically darker, fading to a lighter, silvery belly. Fins are usually pinkish. Juveniles may have faint blue spots on the head and body, which fade with age. A small, dark spot may be present at the base of the pectoral fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Reddish-pink body coloration, Relatively deep and compressed body, Large eyes, Small, conical teeth in the front of the jaws, with molar-like teeth further back, Absence of prominent dark spots on the body (distinguishing from some other seabreams)

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12 spines and 10-13 soft rays. The spiny part is longer than the soft-rayed part.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin, typically pinkish.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins, often reaching beyond the origin of the anal fin.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 9-11 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   Look for the characteristic reddish-pink to silvery-pink body color, often with iridescent sheen. This is a primary identifier.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Note the relatively deep and compressed body, typical of many sparids.

3. 3

   Eyes

   Common pandora have noticeably large eyes relative to their head size.

4. 4

   Pectoral Fins

   Observe the long, pointed pectoral fins that often extend past the origin of the anal fin.

5. 5

   Absence of prominent spots

   Unlike some other Pagellus species (e.g., Pagellus bogaraveo), the Common pandora typically lacks prominent dark spots on the body or behind the operculum, though a small dark spot at the pectoral fin base may be present.

Explore Common pandora