How to Identify Brown Comber

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

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is typically yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, often with 5-7 dark, vertical bands or blotches that can vary in intensity. A prominent dark spot, often black or dark brown, is usually present on the posterior part of the dorsal fin, and another smaller one at the base of the caudal fin. The belly is lighter, often whitish or yellowish. Fins are generally translucent with some darker markings.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Small size, typically not exceeding 25 cm in total length, with an average of 10-15 cm., A characteristic dark spot on the posterior part of the dorsal fin., A smaller dark spot at the base of the caudal fin., Five to seven irregular dark vertical bands on the flanks., Large mouth with small, sharp teeth.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 10 spines and 10-12 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is slightly emarginate or truncate.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located below the pectoral fins, and have 1 spine and 5 soft rays. Anal fin has 3 spines and 7-8 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Dorsal Fin Spot

   Look for the prominent dark spot on the posterior part of the dorsal fin, which is a key distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Caudal Fin Spot

   Observe the smaller dark spot at the base of the caudal fin.

3. 3

   Body Bands

   Note the 5-7 irregular dark vertical bands on the body, which can vary in intensity but are usually present.

4. 4

   Size

   Its relatively small size (usually under 15 cm) helps differentiate it from larger comber species.

Explore Brown Comber