Atlantic horse mackerel and Similar Species
Trachurus trachurus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Atlantic horse mackerel. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Mediterranean horse mackerel
Trachurus mediterraneus
Key differences: The Mediterranean horse mackerel has a lateral line that is only partially covered with scutes, typically only on the posterior half, whereas T. trachurus has scutes along its entire lateral line. The scutes of T. mediterraneus are also generally smaller.
Blue jack mackerel
Trachurus picturatus
Key differences: T. picturatus typically has a more slender body and a longer pectoral fin. The scutes on its lateral line are generally smaller and less prominent than those of T. trachurus, and its coloration can be more intensely blue dorsally.
Chub mackerel
Scomber colias
Key differences: True mackerels (Scomber spp.) lack the prominent scutes along the lateral line that are characteristic of Trachurus species. Chub mackerel also have a series of distinct wavy lines or spots on their dorsal side, which are absent in Atlantic horse mackerel.
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