Come identificare Barbel

Per identificare Barbel (Barbus barbus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

elongated

Colorazione

Dorsal side is typically olive-green to brownish-grey, fading to golden-yellow or brassy on the flanks, and whitish on the belly. Fins are often reddish-brown.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

inferior

Caratteristiche distintive

Four prominent barbels around the mouth (two rostral, two maxillary), used for sensing food., Large, deeply embedded scales., Strong, muscular, torpedo-shaped body adapted for fast currents., A single, strong, serrated spine at the front of the dorsal fin.

Pinna dorsale

Single dorsal fin with 3-4 unbranched rays and 8-9 branched rays. The first unbranched ray is a strong, serrated spine.

Pinna caudale

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Paired pectoral fins, relatively large and rounded.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located behind the pectoral fins. All fins are well-developed and aid in maintaining position in strong currents.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Barbels

   The presence of four prominent barbels around the mouth is the most definitive characteristic, distinguishing it from most other European cyprinids.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Its elongated, cylindrical, and muscular body, adapted for strong currents, is distinct from the more compressed bodies of many other cyprinids like bream or roach.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin Spine

   The strong, serrated spine at the front of the dorsal fin is a key feature, though care should be taken when handling as it can cause injury.

4. 4

   Mouth Position

   Its inferior mouth, adapted for bottom feeding, is another clear indicator.

Esplora Barbel