Come identificare Minnow

Per identificare Minnow (Phoxinus phoxinus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

elongated

Colorazione

Dorsal side is typically olive-brown to greenish-brown, fading to silvery-white on the belly. A distinctive dark lateral stripe runs from the snout to the caudal fin base, often broken into blotches. During breeding, males develop bright red or orange coloration on their flanks and belly, and tubercles (breeding warts) on their head.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Small, embedded scales, making the skin appear smooth., A dark lateral stripe, often interrupted., Vibrant breeding coloration in males (red/orange flanks, tubercles)., Relatively large eyes.

Pinna dorsale

Single, short-based dorsal fin, typically with 7-9 branched rays.

Pinna caudale

Forked caudal fin with rounded lobes.

Pinna pettorale

Paired pectoral fins, relatively small.

Pinne distintive

All fins are generally clear or slightly yellowish, becoming reddish in breeding males.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Size and Shape

   Small, slender fish, typically 7-12 cm (3-5 inches) in length, rarely exceeding 14 cm (5.5 inches).

2. 2

   Lateral Line

   The lateral line is incomplete, usually extending only about halfway along the body.

3. 3

   Scales

   Very small, almost embedded scales, giving the fish a smooth appearance. This distinguishes it from many other cyprinids with larger, more prominent scales.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Look for the characteristic dark lateral stripe and the olive-brown dorsal coloration. Breeding males are unmistakable with their bright red/orange flanks and tubercles.

5. 5

   Mouth

   Small, terminal mouth, adapted for feeding on small invertebrates and algae.

Esplora Minnow