How to Identify Western Trumpeter Whiting

To identify Western Trumpeter Whiting (Sillago burrus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Overall silvery to pale brown dorsally, fading to white ventrally. A series of 7-10 dark, saddle-like blotches or bars are present along the lateral line, often extending onto the dorsal surface. Fins are generally hyaline (clear) to dusky, with the caudal fin sometimes having a yellowish tinge.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, slightly compressed body., Small, terminal mouth., Two distinct dorsal fins., A series of dark blotches along the lateral line., Large, ctenoid scales.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 10-11 spines, the second with 1 spine and 18-21 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is typically higher than the second.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are moderately long, reaching to or slightly beyond the origin of the second dorsal fin.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the elongated, silvery body with a series of distinct dark blotches or saddles along the lateral line. This pattern is a key identifier.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two separate dorsal fins, with the first being spiny and generally taller than the second soft-rayed fin.

3. 3

   Mouth

   Observe the small, slightly upward-pointing terminal mouth, characteristic of whiting species.

4. 4

   Geographic Location

   Its presence exclusively in Western Australian waters is a strong indicator for identification.

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