Horse Mackerel and Similar Species
Trachurus picturatus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Horse Mackerel. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Atlantic Horse Mackerel
Trachurus trachurus
Key differences: T. picturatus has a higher number of scutes on the straight part of the lateral line (60-77 vs. 69-98 in T. trachurus, but the key difference is the size and prominence of the scutes, with T. picturatus having larger, more pronounced scutes throughout the straight section. T. picturatus also tends to have a more slender body and larger eyes relative to its head size, and generally inhabits deeper waters.
Mediterranean Horse Mackerel
Trachurus mediterraneus
Key differences: T. mediterraneus has fewer scutes on the straight part of the lateral line (30-46) and the scutes are less developed anteriorly, becoming larger posteriorly. Its body is generally more elongated and less deep than T. picturatus.
Cape Horse Mackerel
Trachurus capensis
Key differences: T. capensis is found in the southeastern Atlantic and southwestern Indian Oceans. It has a similar body shape but differs in meristic counts, particularly the number of scutes and fin rays. Morphological differences are subtle and often require detailed examination.
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