How to Identify John Dory

To identify John Dory (Zeus faber), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Olive-yellow to golden-brown, often with silvery reflections, fading to white on the belly. The most striking feature is a large, dark, circular spot (ocellus) ringed in gold or white on each flank, positioned roughly in the center of the body. This spot is thought to mimic a large eye, deterring predators or startling prey. Vertical stripes or mottling may be present, aiding in camouflage.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Highly compressed, deep, and disc-shaped body., Large, dark, circular spot (ocellus) on each flank., Long, filamentous spines on the dorsal fin, often with small, sharp spines along their base., Large, protractile mouth that can extend forward to engulf prey., Absence of scales on the body, though small, sharp scutes are present along the dorsal and ventral profiles.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin is very tall and spiny, with 9-10 long, filamentous spines connected by a membrane. The second dorsal fin is much shorter, with 22-25 soft rays. The spines of the first dorsal fin are notably elongated and can be erected.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is rounded to slightly emarginate, relatively small compared to the body size.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are small and rounded, positioned high on the body. Pelvic fins are large, fan-shaped, and located anterior to the pectoral fins, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Distinctive fins

The anal fin is long, with 4 spines and 20-23 soft rays. The pelvic fins are particularly prominent and can be used for stability and maneuvering.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a very thin, disc-shaped body that is much deeper than it is long.

2. 2

   Lateral Spot

   The most definitive feature is the prominent, dark, circular spot on each side of its body, often surrounded by a lighter ring.

3. 3

   Dorsal Spines

   Observe the very long, filamentous spines of the first dorsal fin, which can be erected.

4. 4

   Mouth

   Note the large, highly protractile mouth that can extend significantly forward to engulf prey.

5. 5

   Coloration

   The overall olive-yellow to golden-brown coloration with silvery flanks is characteristic.

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