Come identificare Saithe

Per identificare Saithe (Pollachius virens), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

torpedo

Colorazione

Dorsal side is typically dark greenish-black to dark grey, fading to a silvery-grey on the flanks and a white belly. The dark coloration gives it the common name 'coalfish'.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Prominent, pale, straight lateral line running along the entire body, contrasting sharply with the dark background., Small barbel, often absent or rudimentary, on the chin (unlike Atlantic Cod which has a prominent barbel)., Three dorsal fins and two anal fins., Forked caudal fin.

Pinna dorsale

Three distinct dorsal fins: first dorsal fin with 13-16 rays, second with 20-24 rays, third with 19-24 rays.

Pinna caudale

Strongly forked (emarginate) caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Relatively long and pointed pectoral fins.

Pinne distintive

Two distinct anal fins: first with 20-25 rays, second with 19-23 rays. Pelvic fins are small and located anterior to the pectoral fins.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Lateral Line

   The most distinguishing feature is its very straight, pale lateral line, which stands out against its dark body. This differentiates it from Atlantic Cod (which has a curved lateral line) and Haddock (which has a dark spot above the pectoral fin and a curved lateral line).

2. 2

   Chin Barbel

   Saithe typically has a very small or absent chin barbel, unlike the prominent barbel found on Atlantic Cod and Haddock.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Its dark, almost blackish-green dorsal coloration, fading to silvery sides and a white belly, is characteristic. This is generally darker than Atlantic Cod.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   More streamlined and torpedo-shaped than the more robust Atlantic Cod.

Esplora Saithe