How to Identify Yellowtail Amberjack

To identify Yellowtail Amberjack (Seriola lalandi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically dark blue to greenish-blue, fading to silvery-white on the ventral side. A prominent, iridescent yellow to brassy stripe runs horizontally from the snout through the eye to the caudal peduncle. The caudal fin is bright yellow, and other fins may have yellowish tints.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Prominent yellow lateral stripe, Bright yellow caudal fin, Streamlined, fusiform body, Relatively small, cycloid scales, Absence of scutes along the lateral line (except on the caudal peduncle)

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is short with 7-8 spines, the second is much longer with 1 spine and 31-37 soft rays. The anterior rays of the second dorsal fin are elevated.

Tail fin

Deeply forked and bright yellow, with stiff lobes.

Pectoral fin

Relatively short, falcate (sickle-shaped), and positioned low on the body.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin similar in shape and size to the second dorsal fin, preceded by 2 detached spines (which may be embedded in adults), followed by 1 spine and 19-23 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Stripe

   Look for the distinctive iridescent yellow to brassy stripe running from the snout to the tail, and the bright yellow caudal fin. The dorsal side is dark blue/green, transitioning to silver below.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Its torpedo-shaped, streamlined body is indicative of a fast-swimming pelagic predator.

3. 3

   Fin Structure

   Note the two dorsal fins, with the second being much longer and elevated anteriorly, and the deeply forked yellow tail.

4. 4

   Absence of Scutes

   Unlike some other carangids, S. lalandi lacks prominent scutes along the entire lateral line, having only a few on the caudal peduncle.

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