How to Identify Narrow-barred Spanish Mackerel

To identify Narrow-barred Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus commerson), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface iridescent blue-grey, fading to silvery white on the flanks and belly. The most distinctive feature is the series of 20-60 narrow, wavy, vertical bars that extend from the dorsal surface to below the lateral line, becoming less distinct ventrally. Fins are dusky.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Highly compressed, elongated, and fusiform body., Large, conical mouth with strong, triangular, compressed teeth., Lateral line dips abruptly below the second dorsal fin., Absence of scales on the body, or very small, rudimentary scales., Distinctive narrow, wavy vertical bars on the flanks.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is spiny (15-18 spines), the second is soft-rayed (15-19 rays) followed by 8-10 finlets. The first dorsal fin is typically dark.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin (tail fin) with a strong keel on the caudal peduncle, indicative of a fast swimmer.

Pectoral fin

Short and pointed pectoral fins (21-24 rays), set high on the body.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin (16-20 rays) similar in shape and size to the second dorsal fin, also followed by 7-10 finlets. Pelvic fins are small and located beneath the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the elongated, torpedo-shaped body with an iridescent blue-grey back and silvery sides. The most definitive feature is the presence of numerous (20-60) narrow, wavy, vertical bars on the flanks.

2. 2

   Lateral Line

   Observe the lateral line, which makes a distinct, sharp dip below the second dorsal fin, rather than a gradual curve.

3. 3

   Teeth

   If possible, note the large, triangular, compressed teeth in the mouth, characteristic of a predatory fish.

4. 4

   Finlets

   Count the dorsal and anal finlets (8-10 dorsal, 7-10 anal) which are typical for scombrid fishes.

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