Come identificare Pesce lucerna

Per identificare Pesce lucerna (Gouania willdenowi), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

flat

Colorazione

Highly variable, typically mottled brown, grey, or reddish-brown, often with irregular darker blotches and lighter speckles, providing excellent camouflage. The ventral adhesive disc is usually paler.

Tipo di squame

none

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Prominent ventral adhesive disc formed by modified pelvic fins, Flattened head and body, Small, inconspicuous dorsal and anal fins, Absence of scales

Pinna dorsale

Single, short dorsal fin located posteriorly, typically with 5-7 soft rays. It is confluent with the caudal fin in some individuals or closely adjoined.

Pinna caudale

Rounded caudal fin, often continuous with the dorsal and anal fins.

Pinna pettorale

Broad and fan-like, positioned laterally.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are modified into a large, powerful adhesive disc on the ventral surface, consisting of two distinct parts: an anterior disc and a posterior disc, separated by a central papilla. This disc is crucial for its clinging ability.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Adhesive Disc

   The most definitive feature is the large, oval-shaped adhesive disc on its underside, formed by fused pelvic fins. This disc is highly visible when the fish is viewed ventrally.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Size

   Small, maximum length typically around 3-4 cm (1.2-1.6 inches), with a distinctly flattened head and body, tapering towards the tail.

3. 3

   Coloration and Camouflage

   Observe its mottled brown, grey, or reddish-brown coloration, which blends seamlessly with rocky substrates. Look for irregular blotches and speckles.

4. 4

   Habitat

   If found clinging to rocks or under stones in tide pools or shallow rocky areas with strong water movement, it is highly likely to be a clingfish, and Gouania willdenowi is a common species in the Mediterranean.

Esplora Pesce lucerna