How to Identify Pigo

To identify Pigo (Rutilus pigus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically dark greenish-grey to brownish, fading to silvery flanks and a whitish belly. Fins are often reddish, especially the pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins, becoming more intense during spawning. The iris is usually yellowish or reddish.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Relatively large scales, Terminal mouth, Often reddish fins, Deeply forked caudal fin

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively short dorsal fin with 3-4 unbranched and 8-10 branched rays, positioned slightly behind the pelvic fins.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins, often reddish.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, positioned below or slightly anterior to the dorsal fin origin. Anal fin is relatively short with 3 unbranched and 9-11 branched rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for an elongated, somewhat compressed body with a dark back, silvery sides, and a white belly. The reddish tint to the fins is a key indicator, especially in adults.

2. 2

   Mouth Position

   The mouth is terminal, meaning it is at the very front of the head, not upturned or downturned.

3. 3

   Scale Size

   Rutilus pigus has relatively large scales compared to some other cyprinids. Count the lateral line scales (typically 40-45).

4. 4

   Fin Ray Counts

   Precise fin ray counts can help differentiate it from very similar species. Dorsal fin: 3-4 unbranched, 8-10 branched rays. Anal fin: 3 unbranched, 9-11 branched rays.

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