How to Identify Trumpeter Whiting

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

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically pale brown to yellowish-brown, fading to white or silvery on the ventral side. The most distinctive feature is a series of irregular, dark brown to black blotches or spots along the lateral line and upper flanks, often forming indistinct bars. Fins are generally translucent to yellowish, with the caudal fin sometimes having a dusky margin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, slightly compressed body, Distinctive dark blotches/spots along the lateral line and upper flanks, Two dorsal fins, the first with strong spines, Small, slightly inferior mouth

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 10-11 strong spines, the second with 1 spine and 17-19 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is typically higher than the second.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is slightly forked or truncate.

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, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays. Anal fin has 2 spines and 17-19 soft rays, similar in length to the second dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the elongated, slender body with a pale brown to yellowish-brown back and silvery-white belly. The most reliable identifier is the presence of distinct, irregular dark blotches or spots along the sides, particularly above the lateral line.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin is spiny and noticeably taller than the second, soft-rayed dorsal fin.

3. 3

   Mouth Position

   The mouth is relatively small and slightly inferior (subterminal), indicating its bottom-feeding habits.

4. 4

   Lateral Line

   The lateral line is complete and runs along the mid-flank, often with the characteristic dark spots concentrated along or just above it.

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