How to Identify Fringe-scale Sardinella

To identify Fringe-scale Sardinella (Sardinella fimbriata), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery flanks, darker bluish-green dorsal surface. A distinct dark spot is often present on the posterior part of the dorsal fin. Fins are hyaline (transparent) to yellowish.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Fimbriated (fringed) scales along the ventral margin, particularly noticeable on the belly., A distinct dark spot on the posterior part of the dorsal fin., A series of scutes (modified scales) along the belly., Absence of a dark spot on the body behind the gill opening (distinguishes from some other Sardinella species).

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively short dorsal fin located mid-body, with 13-18 soft rays. Often has a dark spot posteriorly.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Small, located low on the body, with 13-16 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small, located below the dorsal fin origin, with 8 rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Ventral Scales

   Carefully examine the scales along the belly. Sardinella fimbriata has distinctively fringed or fimbriated scales, which are small, tooth-like projections on the posterior margin of the scales. This is a key diagnostic feature.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin Spot

   Look for a prominent dark spot on the posterior (rear) part of the dorsal fin. This spot is usually quite clear and helps distinguish it from other sardinella species.

3. 3

   Body Spot Absence

   Note the absence of a dark spot on the body behind the gill opening. This differentiates it from species like Sardinella gibbosa (Goldstripe Sardinella) which often has such a spot.

4. 4

   Scutes

   Count the number of pre-pelvic and post-pelvic scutes (modified, keeled scales along the belly). S. fimbriata typically has 18-20 pre-pelvic scutes and 12-15 post-pelvic scutes.

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