Come identificare Catalufa

Per identificare Catalufa (Priacanthus arenatus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

compressed

Colorazione

Typically reddish to silvery-red, often with silvery or whitish blotches or bars, especially when stressed or at night. The fins are usually reddish. Can exhibit rapid color changes depending on mood or environment. Juveniles may have more pronounced spots or patterns.

Tipo di squame

ctenoid

Posizione della bocca

superior

Caratteristiche distintive

Very large eyes, characteristic of nocturnal species, with a reflective tapetum lucidum., Deep, compressed body., Large, oblique mouth with a projecting lower jaw., Rough, ctenoid scales., Pelvic fins are large and often blackish, sometimes with a dark membrane between the rays.

Pinna dorsale

Single dorsal fin with 10 spines and 12-14 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Pinna caudale

Caudal fin is truncate to slightly emarginate.

Pinna pettorale

Pectoral fins are relatively short, with 18-20 rays.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are large, originating anterior to the pectoral fin base, and are often dark or blackish, especially in adults. Anal fin has 3 spines and 13-15 soft rays.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Eyes

   The most striking feature is the exceptionally large, often reddish, eyes, which are disproportionately large compared to the head.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Color

   Deep, compressed body with a reddish to silvery-red overall coloration. Look for potential silvery blotches or bars, especially at night or when caught.

3. 3

   Pelvic Fins

   The large, often dark or blackish pelvic fins are a key identifier, originating anterior to the pectoral fin base.

4. 4

   Mouth

   The large, oblique mouth with a projecting lower jaw is characteristic of its predatory feeding style.

5. 5

   Fin Ray Counts

   Dorsal fin: X spines, 12-14 soft rays. Anal fin: III spines, 13-15 soft rays. These counts can help distinguish it from other Priacanthus species.

Esplora Catalufa