How to Identify Horse Mackerel

To identify Horse Mackerel (Trachurus picturatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically dark blue to greenish-blue, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. A distinct dark spot is often present on the upper margin of the operculum.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, fusiform body, moderately compressed., Large eyes, often larger than the snout length., Two dorsal fins: the first with 8-9 spines, the second with 1 spine and 28-33 soft rays., Anal fin with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 24-29 soft rays., Pectoral fins are long and falcate., Lateral line is complete, with a distinct anterior arched portion and a straight posterior portion. The straight part is fully covered with large, keeled scutes (bony plates), numbering 60-77., Caudal peduncle is slender., Maximum recorded length up to 60 cm (23.6 inches) TL, but commonly found between 20-40 cm (7.9-15.7 inches) TL. Maximum weight around 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs).

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; first short with 8-9 spines, second long with 1 spine and 28-33 soft rays.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and falcate, extending beyond the origin of the second dorsal fin.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 2 anterior detached spines, followed by 1 spine and 24-29 soft rays. Pelvic fins are small, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Lateral Line Scutes

   The most definitive feature is the presence of a complete straight section of the lateral line covered entirely by large, prominent scutes (60-77 in number). These scutes are keeled and provide a rough texture.

2. 2

   Eye Size

   Relatively large eyes, often appearing disproportionately large compared to the head, especially in smaller individuals.

3. 3

   Opercular Spot

   A distinct dark spot on the upper part of the operculum (gill cover).

4. 4

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a dark blue to greenish-blue back and silvery sides, typical of pelagic schooling fish.

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