Come identificare Tordo

Per identificare Tordo (Symphodus tinca), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

compressed

Colorazione

Highly variable and sexually dimorphic. Males are typically more brightly colored, often displaying intricate patterns of green, blue, red, and orange, with iridescent spots and lines. Females and juveniles are generally duller, ranging from greenish-brown to reddish-brown, often with mottled patterns for camouflage. A distinctive dark spot is usually present at the base of the caudal fin and sometimes on the operculum. During breeding, males exhibit intensified coloration.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Robust body with a relatively deep profile., Thick, prominent lips., Small, pointed head., Large, cycloid scales., Often a dark spot at the caudal fin base., Sexually dimorphic 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 to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Large, fan-like pectoral fins.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located directly below the pectoral fins. Anal fin has 3 spines and 8-11 soft rays.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Body Shape and Size

   Look for a robust, compressed body, typically reaching up to 40 cm (16 inches) in length, though usually smaller (20-30 cm).

2. 2

   Coloration and Patterns

   Observe the highly variable but often vibrant coloration, especially in males. Look for iridescent spots, lines, and the characteristic dark spot at the base of the caudal fin. Females are generally duller, with mottled brown/green patterns.

3. 3

   Head and Mouth

   Note the relatively small, pointed head with thick, prominent lips. The mouth is terminal.

4. 4

   Fin Structure

   Examine the single, long dorsal fin with a spiny anterior portion and a soft-rayed posterior portion. The caudal fin is rounded.

5. 5

   Habitat

   This species is almost exclusively found in rocky reefs and seagrass beds, which helps differentiate it from pelagic or sandy-bottom dwelling species.

Esplora Tordo