How to Identify Bali Sardinella

To identify Bali Sardinella (Sardinella lemuru), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal side bluish-green to dark blue, fading to silvery white on the flanks and belly. A distinct black spot is usually present on the posterior margin of the operculum (gill cover).

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Streamlined, fusiform body., A series of scutes (modified scales) along the belly., A distinct black spot on the operculum., Small, pointed head with a terminal mouth.

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively short dorsal fin located mid-body, typically with 13-18 soft rays.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, characteristic of fast-swimming pelagic species.

Pectoral fin

Small, located low on the body, with 13-17 soft rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small, located abdominally, with 8 soft rays. Anal fin is short, located posterior to the dorsal fin, with 12-19 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Opercular Spot

   Look for a prominent black spot on the posterior edge of the gill cover. This is a key distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Its torpedo-shaped, silvery body with a bluish-green back is typical of many sardine species, but combined with the opercular spot, it aids identification.

3. 3

   Scutes

   Feel for the sharp, keeled scutes along the belly, a characteristic of the Clupeidae family.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults typically reach a maximum standard length of about 23 cm, though commonly observed around 15-20 cm.

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