How to Identify Sardinella

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

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically bluish-green to dark blue, fading to silvery flanks and a white belly. Some species may have a series of dark spots along the flank.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Compressed body, Large, easily shed scales (cycloid), Single, short dorsal fin located mid-body, Forked caudal fin, Absence of a lateral line (or very faint), A series of scutes (bony plates) along the belly, often forming a sharp keel, Small, terminal mouth without teeth or with very minute teeth

Dorsal fin

Single, short, located approximately mid-body, typically with 13-21 soft rays.

Tail fin

Deeply forked, symmetrical lobes.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small, low-set, with 12-17 soft rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins small, abdominal, located below or slightly behind the dorsal fin origin. Anal fin short, located far back on the body, with 12-23 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for a slender, compressed body with a distinct silvery sheen. The back is typically darker (bluish-green to dark blue) and fades to silver on the sides and white on the belly.

2. 2

   Scutes

   Feel for a series of sharp, bony scutes along the belly, forming a keel. The number and prominence of these scutes can vary between species.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin Position

   The single dorsal fin is usually located around the midpoint of the body, which helps distinguish them from some other clupeids.

4. 4

   Absence of Lateral Line

   Unlike many fish, Sardinella species typically lack a prominent lateral line, or it is very faint.

5. 5

   Spotting (Species-Specific)

   Some species, like Sardinella aurita, may have a series of small, dark spots along the flank, which can be a key identifier.

6. 6

   Gill Rakers

   For precise identification, especially between similar species, the number and morphology of gill rakers on the first gill arch are often crucial, requiring dissection.

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