How to Identify Blackmouth Bass

To identify Blackmouth Bass (Serranus atricauda), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is generally brownish-red to reddish-brown, often with irregular darker blotches or vertical bands that can be more pronounced or faded depending on the substrate and mood. The most distinctive feature is the black or dark brown coloration inside the mouth and gill covers, which is visible when the mouth is open. Fins are typically translucent or slightly dusky, sometimes with reddish tints. A dark spot may be present at the base of the caudal fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Black or dark brown coloration inside the mouth and gill covers, Irregular darker blotches or vertical bands on the body, Relatively large eyes, Pointed snout

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 10 spines and 12-15 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is typically truncate or slightly emarginate.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located below the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth Coloration

   The most reliable distinguishing feature is the dark, almost black, coloration inside the mouth and on the inner surfaces of the gill covers. This is often visible when the fish opens its mouth.

2. 2

   Body Pattern

   Look for the brownish-red body with irregular darker blotches or faint vertical bands. This pattern can vary in intensity.

3. 3

   Fin Structure

   Note the single dorsal fin with a prominent spiny anterior portion and a truncate or slightly emarginate caudal fin.

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