How to Identify Bigeye Scad

To identify Bigeye Scad (Selar crumenophthalmus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal side metallic blue-green to dark green, fading to silvery white on the flanks and belly. A distinct black spot is often present on the upper operculum (gill cover).

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Very large eyes, giving it its common name, with an adipose eyelid covering most of the eye except for a vertical slit over the pupil., A prominent, straight lateral line with a posterior section that is heavily armored with scutes (bony plates)., A small, detached finlet behind the second dorsal and anal fins.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8 spines, the second with 1 spine and 24-27 soft rays, followed by a single finlet.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and falcate (sickle-shaped), extending beyond the origin of the second dorsal fin.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 20-23 soft rays, also followed by a single finlet.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Eyes

   The most distinguishing feature is the exceptionally large eye, covered by a well-developed adipose eyelid, leaving only a vertical slit for the pupil.

2. 2

   Lateral Line

   Observe the lateral line; it is straight and armed with a series of prominent scutes (bony plates) posteriorly, particularly noticeable towards the caudal peduncle.

3. 3

   Finlets

   Presence of a single detached finlet behind both the second dorsal and anal fins.

4. 4

   Opercular Spot

   Look for a distinct black spot on the upper margin of the operculum (gill cover).

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