Come identificare Red mullet

Per identificare Red mullet (Mullus barbatus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

elongated

Colorazione

The dorsal side is typically reddish-pink to brick-red, often with faint longitudinal stripes. The ventral side is silvery-white. Coloration can intensify to a vibrant red when stressed or freshly caught. The fins are generally translucent with a reddish tint.

Tipo di squame

ctenoid

Posizione della bocca

inferior

Caratteristiche distintive

Two long, prominent chemosensory barbels originating from the chin, used for foraging in sediment., Large scales., Two distinct dorsal fins, widely separated.

Pinna dorsale

Two dorsal fins; the first dorsal fin has 8-9 spines, and the second dorsal fin has 8-9 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is typically higher than the second.

Pinna caudale

Forked caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Relatively small and rounded pectoral fins.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Barbels

   The presence of two long, prominent barbels on the chin is a key identifier for all Mullidae species, including Mullus barbatus. These are used to probe the substrate for food.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Its characteristic reddish-pink to brick-red dorsal coloration, fading to silvery-white ventrally, is a strong indicator. Note that color can change rapidly upon capture.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fins

   Two distinct and widely separated dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin is typically taller and spiny, while the second is softer-rayed.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Elongated, somewhat compressed body, typical of goatfishes.

Esplora Red mullet