How to Identify Crimson Jobfish

To identify Crimson Jobfish (Pristipomoides filamentosus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

The body is generally pinkish-red to crimson dorsally, fading to a lighter pink or silvery-white ventrally. Fins are often reddish, with the dorsal and caudal fins sometimes having darker margins. Juveniles may exhibit faint yellow or golden hues.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, fusiform body, Large eyes, indicative of its deep-water habitat, Small, conical teeth in both jaws, with some enlarged canines at the front, Absence of scales on the snout and interorbital space, A relatively small mouth that does not extend past the anterior margin of the eye, Maximum recorded length up to 100 cm (39 inches) TL, commonly 50-70 cm (20-28 inches) TL, Maximum recorded weight up to 8.2 kg (18 lbs)

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, deeply notched, with 10 spines and 11-12 soft rays. The last soft ray is often elongated, giving it a 'threadfin' appearance, especially in juveniles.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin, with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Long pectoral fins, reaching to or beyond the anus, with 15-17 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 8 soft rays. Pelvic fins with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   Look for the characteristic pinkish-red to crimson body, fading to lighter shades ventrally. This is a primary identifier.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin

   Observe the single, deeply notched dorsal fin with 10 spines and 11-12 soft rays. The elongated last soft ray is a key feature, especially in younger individuals.

3. 3

   Eye Size

   Its relatively large eyes are adapted for low-light conditions in its deep-water habitat.

4. 4

   Mouth and Teeth

   Note the small mouth with conical teeth and a few enlarged canines at the front of the jaws.

5. 5

   Absence of Scales

   The lack of scales on the snout and interorbital space helps distinguish it from some other snapper species.

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