Come identificare Longfin Gurnard

Per identificare Longfin Gurnard (Chelidonichthys obscurus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

elongated

Colorazione

Dorsal surface typically reddish-brown to greyish-brown, often mottled or spotted, providing camouflage. Ventral surface is paler, whitish. Pectoral fins are often brightly colored on the inner surface, ranging from blue to green with dark spots or bands, serving as a warning or display.

Tipo di squame

ctenoid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Large, bony head with prominent ridges and spines., Three free, finger-like rays at the bottom of each pectoral fin, used for locomotion and sensing prey., Large, fan-like pectoral fins, often with striking coloration on the inner surface., Two distinct dorsal fins.

Pinna dorsale

First dorsal fin with 9-11 spines; second dorsal fin with 16-18 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is typically higher than the second.

Pinna caudale

Caudal fin is truncate or slightly emarginate.

Pinna pettorale

Large and wing-like, extending beyond the origin of the anal fin. The three lowermost rays are free and thickened.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Head Morphology

   Observe the large, bony head with prominent ridges and spines. The snout is relatively short and blunt compared to some other gurnard species.

2. 2

   Pectoral Fins

   Note the size and coloration of the pectoral fins. The inner surface is often vividly colored (blue, green, or blackish) with distinct spots or bands. Crucially, identify the three free, detached rays at the bottom of each pectoral fin.

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   The lateral line is distinct and runs along the body, often with small bony scutes.

4. 4

   Body Coloration

   The overall reddish-brown to greyish-brown mottled pattern on the dorsal side is characteristic, aiding in camouflage on the seabed.

Esplora Longfin Gurnard