How to Identify Spotted Pimelodus

To identify Spotted Pimelodus (Pimelodus maculatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is typically silvery-grey to brownish-grey on the dorsal side, fading to a lighter, often whitish, ventral surface. The most striking feature is the presence of numerous distinct, dark, irregularly shaped spots covering the entire body, including the fins. The intensity and size of these spots can vary.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Three pairs of long, prominent barbels (one maxillary, two mandibular), with the maxillary barbels often extending beyond the caudal fin., Adipose fin is relatively large and well-developed., Strong, serrated spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins.

Dorsal fin

One dorsal fin with a strong, serrated spine and 6-7 soft rays, followed by a large adipose fin.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins with a strong, serrated spine and several soft rays.

Distinctive fins

The adipose fin is notably large and fleshy, a characteristic feature of many Pimelodidae.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Spotting

   The most reliable identifier is the distinctive pattern of numerous dark, irregularly shaped spots covering the entire body and fins. The background color is typically silvery-grey to brownish-grey.

2. 2

   Barbels

   Possesses three pairs of very long barbels, with the maxillary barbels often extending past the caudal fin. These are sensory organs used for foraging in murky waters.

3. 3

   Adipose Fin

   A prominent, large adipose fin is present, which is characteristic of the family Pimelodidae.

4. 4

   Fin Spines

   Strong, serrated spines are present in both the dorsal and pectoral fins. Care should be taken when handling.

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