How to Identify Greater Lizardfish

To identify Greater Lizardfish (Synodus indicus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically light brown to grey, often with darker saddles or blotches that aid in camouflage. Ventral surface is whitish. Fins are generally translucent with some darker markings. A series of indistinct dark blotches or bars may be present along the lateral line.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Elongated, cylindrical body, tapering towards the tail., Large, broad head with a prominent, wide mouth extending well past the posterior margin of the eye., Numerous sharp, needle-like teeth on both jaws, tongue, and palatine bones., Adipose fin present, small and fleshy, located posterior to the dorsal fin., Large eyes positioned dorsally on the head, providing a wide field of vision for ambush predation., Scales are relatively large and cycloid.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 10-13 soft rays. Originates slightly anterior to the pelvic fin insertion.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin, moderately sized.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small, positioned low on the body, with 11-13 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are large, located abdominally, with 8 rays, and are positioned anterior to the dorsal fin origin. The inner rays are typically longer than the outer rays. Adipose fin present.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the elongated, cylindrical body with cryptic brown/grey coloration and potential darker blotches. The large, lizard-like head is distinctive.

2. 2

   Mouth and Teeth

   The very large mouth extending beyond the eye, armed with numerous sharp, visible teeth, is a key identifier.

3. 3

   Adipose Fin

   The presence of a small, fleshy adipose fin between the dorsal and caudal fins is characteristic of lizardfishes (Synodontidae).

4. 4

   Pelvic Fin Position

   Pelvic fins are large and located abdominally, anterior to the dorsal fin origin, with the inner rays typically longer than the outer rays.

5. 5

   Lateral Line Scales

   Count the number of scales along the lateral line (typically 55-60 in S. indicus) and compare with similar species.

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