How to Identify Pic

To identify Pic (Spicara maena), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The dorsal side is typically greyish-blue to brownish-green, fading to silvery-white on the belly. A prominent, often rectangular or oval, dark blotch is present on the lateral line, usually below the anterior part of the dorsal fin. Males in breeding season can display more vibrant blue and yellow hues, particularly on the head and fins. Fins are generally translucent or slightly yellowish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Highly protrusible mouth, forming a tube when extended., A distinct dark blotch on the lateral line., Protogynous hermaphroditism (sex change from female to male)., Large eyes relative to head size.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 10-11 spines and 10-12 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 9-10 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for an elongated, silvery-grey body with a distinct dark blotch on the flank, usually below the spiny part of the dorsal fin. The mouth is highly protrusible.

2. 2

   Fin Count

   Count the dorsal fin spines (10-11) and soft rays (10-12), and anal fin spines (3) and soft rays (9-10) for confirmation.

3. 3

   Mouth Structure

   Observe the highly protrusible mouth, which can extend significantly forward to form a tube, a key characteristic of the Centracanthidae family.

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