How to Identify Atlantic Lizardfish

To identify Atlantic Lizardfish (Synodus saurus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically mottled brown, grey, or olive, often with darker saddle-like markings or blotches that aid in camouflage. The ventral side is lighter, usually whitish or silvery. Some individuals may exhibit faint iridescent blue or green spots 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 eye., Numerous sharp, needle-like teeth, including those on the tongue and palatine bones, pointing inwards., Adipose fin present between the dorsal and caudal fins., Large eyes positioned dorsally on the head, allowing for a wide field of vision while buried.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 10-13 soft rays. An adipose fin is present posterior to the dorsal fin.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small pectoral fins, positioned low on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are large, located anterior to the dorsal fin origin, and contain 8 rays. These fins are often used to prop the fish up when resting on the substrate.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the long, slender, cylindrical body with cryptic brown/grey/olive mottling. This helps it blend into sandy or rocky seafloors.

2. 2

   Mouth and Teeth

   Observe the very large mouth that extends well beyond the eye, armed with numerous small, sharp, inward-pointing teeth visible even when the mouth is closed.

3. 3

   Adipose Fin

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

4. 4

   Pelvic Fins

   Note the large pelvic fins located anterior to the dorsal fin, which are often used to prop the fish up on the substrate.

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