How to Identify Sacramento Splittail

To identify Sacramento Splittail (Pogonichthys macrolepidotus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically olive-brown to dark gray, fading to silvery sides and a white belly. Fins are often dusky, sometimes with a reddish tint, especially during spawning. Juveniles may have a faint lateral stripe.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Deeply forked caudal fin with the upper lobe longer than the lower, Small, subterminal mouth, Large, cycloid scales, Relatively small eyes, Adults can reach up to 40-75 cm (16-30 inches) in total length, with some individuals exceeding 90 cm (35 inches) and weighing over 3 kg (6.6 lbs).

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 8-10 soft rays. Origin is usually posterior to the pelvic fin origin.

Tail fin

Deeply forked, with the upper lobe distinctly longer than the lower lobe.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small, with 15-18 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, with 9-10 rays. Anal fin has 8-10 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Caudal Fin

   The most distinguishing feature is the deeply forked tail fin, where the upper lobe is noticeably longer than the lower lobe.

2. 2

   Mouth Position

   A small, subterminal mouth (located slightly below the tip of the snout) is characteristic.

3. 3

   Scale Size

   Possesses relatively large, cycloid scales compared to many other minnows.

4. 4

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Elongated body, olive-brown to silvery coloration, and a relatively small head.

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