How to Identify Banded Trevally

To identify Banded Trevally (Seriolina nigrofasciata), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Adults are typically dark grey to brownish-black dorsally, fading to silvery-white ventrally. They are characterized by 5-7 prominent, broad, dark vertical bands that extend from the dorsal surface to below the lateral line. These bands may fade or become less distinct with age. The fins are generally dark.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Robust, elongated, and slightly compressed body., Relatively small eye compared to body size., Prominent, broad, dark vertical bands (5-7) on flanks., Strongly keeled caudal peduncle., Absence of scutes on the lateral line, unlike many other carangids.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 7-8 spines (often embedded in adults), followed by a second dorsal fin with 1 spine and 27-33 soft rays. The anterior rays of the second dorsal fin are elevated.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Long and falcate (sickle-shaped), typically shorter than the head length.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 18-22 soft rays. The anterior rays of the anal fin are also elevated, mirroring the second dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the robust, elongated body and the distinctive 5-7 broad, dark vertical bands on a grey to brownish-black background. The bands are a key identifier.

2. 2

   Eye Size

   Note the relatively small eye compared to the overall head and body size, which is characteristic of this species.

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   Unlike many other trevallies, Seriolina nigrofasciata lacks prominent scutes (enlarged, bony scales) on its lateral line, which can help differentiate it.

4. 4

   Fin Structure

   Observe the elevated anterior rays of both the second dorsal and anal fins, and the deeply forked caudal fin.

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