Come identificare Leerfish

Per identificare Leerfish (Lichia amia), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

compressed

Colorazione

Dorsal side is typically dark blue to greenish-grey, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Juveniles may have faint vertical bars. The fins are often dusky or yellowish.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Elongated, compressed body with a relatively small head., Large, deeply forked caudal fin., Lateral line with a distinct arch over the pectoral fin, then running straight to the caudal peduncle., A series of 7-9 short, detached dorsal fin spines preceding the main dorsal fin., A prominent, dark spot often present on the operculum (gill cover).

Pinna dorsale

Two dorsal fins: the first consists of 7-9 short, detached spines embedded in a groove; the second is much longer, with 1 spine and 19-22 soft rays. The anterior rays of the second dorsal fin are elevated.

Pinna caudale

Deeply forked, powerful caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Relatively short and falcate (sickle-shaped).

Pinne distintive

Anal fin similar in shape and length to the second dorsal fin, with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 17-20 soft rays. Pelvic fins are small.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for the elongated, compressed body, typical of a fast-swimming predator.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin Spines

   The most distinctive feature is the series of 7-9 very short, detached dorsal fin spines that are often partially embedded in a groove, preceding the much larger second dorsal fin.

3. 3

   Coloration

   The dark blue-grey dorsal side transitioning to silvery flanks and belly is characteristic. Juveniles may show faint vertical bars.

4. 4

   Lateral Line

   Observe the lateral line, which has a pronounced arch above the pectoral fin before straightening towards the tail.

Esplora Leerfish