How to Identify Leatherskin

To identify Leatherskin (Scomberoides lysan), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-grey dorsally, fading to white or silvery-white ventrally. Two to eight (typically 5-8) distinct, vertically elongated or oval dark spots are present along the lateral line, often with the first two spots overlapping the lateral line. The caudal fin is yellowish, and other fins are generally dusky or hyaline.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, strongly compressed body., Small, cycloid scales deeply embedded in the skin, giving a 'leathery' feel., Two dorsal fins: the first with 6-7 short, isolated spines, the second with 1 spine and 19-21 soft rays., Anal fin with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 18-20 soft rays., Caudal fin deeply forked., Mouth large, extending to below the posterior margin of the eye., Maxillary teeth in a narrow band, with an outer row of widely spaced canines. Vomer and palatines also toothed., Adults can reach up to 70 cm (28 inches) in fork length, with a maximum recorded weight of 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs).

Dorsal fin

First dorsal fin with 6-7 short, isolated spines; second dorsal fin with 1 spine and 19-21 soft rays. The anterior rays of the second dorsal fin are elevated.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, often yellowish.

Pectoral fin

Short and rounded, with 16-18 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin preceded by two detached spines, followed by 1 spine and 18-20 soft rays. The anterior rays of the anal fin are also elevated, mirroring the second dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for an elongated, strongly compressed body, typical of queenfish species.

2. 2

   Coloration and Spots

   Identify the silvery body with 2 to 8 (usually 5-8) distinct, vertically elongated or oval dark spots along the lateral line. The first two spots often intersect the lateral line.

3. 3

   Scales

   Feel the skin; the scales are very small and deeply embedded, giving a smooth, leathery texture, which is characteristic of the genus Scomberoides.

4. 4

   Dorsal and Anal Fins

   Note the two separate dorsal fins (the first with short, isolated spines) and the anal fin preceded by two detached spines. The anterior rays of both the second dorsal and anal fins are elevated.

5. 5

   Mouth

   Observe the large mouth that extends to or beyond the posterior margin of the eye.

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