Come identificare European Pilchard

Per identificare European Pilchard (Sardina pilchardus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

torpedo

Colorazione

Dorsal side is typically dark blue to greenish-blue, fading to silvery flanks and a white belly. A series of faint, dark spots (usually 1-8) may be present along the flanks, particularly in larger individuals, though these can be indistinct.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Elongated, fusiform body, slightly compressed laterally., Large, easily shed cycloid scales., Single, relatively short dorsal fin located midway along the back., Ventral fins positioned below the anterior part of the dorsal fin., Absence of scales on the head., Operculum with distinct radiating striae (ridges).

Pinna dorsale

Single, short dorsal fin with 13-21 soft rays, typically located anterior to the midpoint of the body.

Pinna caudale

Deeply forked caudal fin, symmetrical lobes.

Pinna pettorale

Relatively small, low-set pectoral fins.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are small and located abdominally, below the anterior part of the dorsal fin. Anal fin is short, located far back on the body, with 12-23 soft rays.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Slender, silvery body with a darker blue-green back. Look for the characteristic faint dark spots along the flanks, though their presence and number can vary.

2. 2

   Scales

   Large, thin, and easily shed cycloid scales. The head is typically scaleless.

3. 3

   Operculum

   Examine the operculum (gill cover) for distinct radiating ridges or striae, a key diagnostic feature for Sardina pilchardus.

4. 4

   Fin Position

   Note the position of the pelvic fins, which are located directly below or slightly anterior to the origin of the dorsal fin.

5. 5

   Size

   Adults typically range from 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) in total length, rarely exceeding 30 cm.

Esplora European Pilchard