How to Identify Sand Whiting

To identify Sand Whiting (Sillago ciliata), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically pale olive-brown to silvery-grey, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. A faint silvery-yellow mid-lateral stripe may be present. Fins are generally hyaline (clear) to dusky, with the caudal fin often having a darker margin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, cylindrical body tapering towards the caudal fin., Small, slightly inferior mouth., Two distinct dorsal fins., Lateral line complete and slightly arched anteriorly., Absence of a black spot at the base of the pectoral fin, which distinguishes it from some other whiting species.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 10-12 spines, the second with 1 spine and 16-19 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is typically higher than the second.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is emarginate (slightly forked) to truncate.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are moderately long, reaching to or slightly beyond the origin of the second dorsal fin. 15-17 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 2 spines and 16-19 soft rays, similar in length to the second dorsal fin. Pelvic fins are thoracic with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a slender, elongated body with a relatively small head.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Observe the silvery-grey to olive-brown dorsal coloration fading to white on the belly. The absence of prominent dark spots or markings on the body is key.

3. 3

   Pectoral Fin Base

   Crucially, Sand Whiting (Sillago ciliata) lacks the distinct black spot at the base of the pectoral fin that is characteristic of some other whiting species, such as the Trumpeter Whiting (Sillago maculata).

4. 4

   Mouth

   Note the small, slightly inferior mouth, adapted for sifting through sand for prey.

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