How to Identify Comber

To identify Comber (Serranus cabrilla), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is typically reddish-brown to orange-brown, marked with 7-9 dark, vertical bands that may be broken or irregular. Three distinct, dark, longitudinal stripes run along the head, often extending onto the body. The belly is lighter, often whitish or yellowish. Coloration can vary depending on habitat and mood, allowing for camouflage.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated body with a relatively large head, Large mouth with numerous small, sharp teeth, Three dark longitudinal stripes on the head, 7-9 irregular dark vertical bands on the body, Single, long dorsal fin

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 10 spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is slightly emarginate (forked) or truncate.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Size

   Elongated body, typically reaching a maximum length of about 40 cm (16 inches), though commonly observed between 15-25 cm (6-10 inches).

2. 2

   Coloration and Markings

   Look for the reddish-brown base color with 7-9 irregular dark vertical bands. The most reliable identification feature is the three dark longitudinal stripes on the head, which distinguish it from other Serranus species.

3. 3

   Fin Structure

   A single, continuous dorsal fin with a spiny anterior portion and a soft-rayed posterior portion. The caudal fin is slightly emarginate.

4. 4

   Mouth

   Relatively large mouth, extending to below the eye, equipped with small, sharp teeth.

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