How to Identify Javelin Grunter

To identify Javelin Grunter (Pomadasys hasta), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-grey to silvery-white, often with several indistinct dark spots or bars on the upper flanks, which may fade with age or upon capture. Fins are typically dusky or yellowish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Deeply notched dorsal fin, Large scales, Small mouth with thick lips, Presence of pharyngeal teeth used to produce a 'grunting' sound, A prominent spine at the angle of the preoperculum

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, deeply notched, with 12-13 strong spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is moderately forked.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively long and pointed.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 strong spines and 7-8 soft rays. The second anal spine is notably robust and long, often longer than the third spine.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for a compressed, silvery body, often with faint dark spots or bars. The overall appearance is robust.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin

   Note the deeply notched dorsal fin with a prominent spinous portion (12-13 spines) and a shorter soft-rayed portion (13-15 rays).

3. 3

   Anal Fin Spines

   Crucially, observe the anal fin, which has 3 strong spines. The second anal spine is typically very robust and often longer than the third, a key diagnostic feature for the genus Pomadasys.

4. 4

   Mouth and Lips

   The mouth is relatively small with thick lips.

5. 5

   Grunting Sound

   If handled, they often produce a distinct 'grunting' sound by grinding their pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder.

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