Come identificare Mediterranean Sand Eel

Per identificare Mediterranean Sand Eel (Gymnammodytes cicerelus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

eel-like

Colorazione

Dorsal side is typically greenish-brown to olive, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and ventral side. Often iridescent. No distinct markings or patterns.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

superior

Caratteristiche distintive

Extremely elongated and slender body, almost cylindrical., Pointed, conical snout with a protruding lower jaw., Absence of pelvic fins., Lateral line runs high along the body., Small, deeply embedded scales, giving a smooth appearance.

Pinna dorsale

Long and low, originating behind the pectoral fins and extending almost to the caudal fin. Composed of 54-60 soft rays.

Pinna caudale

Small and forked.

Pinna pettorale

Small, located low on the body.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are entirely absent. Anal fin is also long and low, originating further back than the dorsal fin, with 29-33 soft rays.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for an extremely slender, elongated, and cylindrical body, distinctly eel-like but with fins.

2. 2

   Snout and Jaw

   Observe the pointed, conical snout and the prominent, protruding lower jaw, which is characteristic of sand eels.

3. 3

   Absence of Pelvic Fins

   A key diagnostic feature is the complete lack of pelvic fins, distinguishing it from many other elongated fish.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Note the greenish-brown to olive dorsal coloration fading to silvery-white on the sides and belly.

5. 5

   Burrowing Behavior

   In its natural habitat, its rapid burrowing into sand when disturbed is a strong indicator.

Esplora Mediterranean Sand Eel