Come identificare Cuckoo Wrasse

Per identificare Cuckoo Wrasse (Symphodus melops), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

compressed

Colorazione

Highly variable. Males typically display a mosaic of green, brown, orange, and blue hues, often with iridescent spots and lines, especially during breeding. Females are generally duller, ranging from greenish-brown to reddish-brown, often mottled. Both sexes possess a prominent dark spot, often ocellated with white or blue, on the upper part of the caudal peduncle. A dark spot is also typically present behind the eye.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Prominent dark spot on the caudal peduncle, often ringed with a lighter color., Dark spot behind the eye., Thick, protractile lips., Robust body with a relatively deep profile., Sexual dimorphism in coloration, especially during breeding.

Pinna dorsale

Single, long dorsal fin with 14-17 spines and 9-12 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Pinna caudale

Rounded caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Large, fan-like pectoral fins.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Caudal Peduncle Spot

   Look for the distinct dark spot, often ringed, on the upper part of the caudal peduncle (the narrow part of the body connecting to the tail fin). This is a key identifier for both sexes.

2. 2

   Post-orbital Spot

   A dark spot or blotch typically present behind the eye is another reliable distinguishing feature.

3. 3

   Coloration (Males)

   Breeding males are strikingly colored with vibrant greens, blues, oranges, and browns, often with intricate patterns. Females are more subdued.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Its relatively deep and compressed body, combined with thick lips, helps differentiate it from other wrasse species.

Esplora Cuckoo Wrasse