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Trachurus trachurus, commonly known as the Atlantic Horse Mackerel, is a pelagic schooling fish belonging to the family Carangidae. It is characterized by its elongated, somewhat compressed body and a distinctive lateral line armed with prominent scutes. This species is an important component of marine ecosystems, serving as both a predator and prey, and holds significant commercial value in many regions.
Caratteristiche fisiche
- Forma del corpo
- torpedo
- Colorazione
- Dorsal side typically bluish-green to grey, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. A distinct black spot is often present on the upper margin of the operculum.
- Tipo di squame
- ctenoid
- Posizione della bocca
- terminal
- Caratteristiche distintive
- Two dorsal fins, the first spiny and the second soft-rayed., A prominent, curved lateral line armed with a series of large, bony scutes (ossified scales) that extend from the pectoral fin to the caudal fin., A small, pointed adipose eyelid covering part of the eye., A small, terminal mouth with fine teeth.
- Pinna dorsale
- First dorsal fin with 8-9 spines; second dorsal fin with 1 spine and 28-33 soft rays. A detached finlet may be present behind the second dorsal fin.
- Pinna caudale
- Deeply forked caudal fin.
- Pinna pettorale
- Long and falcate (sickle-shaped), extending beyond the origin of the second dorsal fin.
- Pinne distintive
- Anal fin with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 24-29 soft rays. Pelvic fins are small and located thoracically.
Consigli per l'identificazione
Lateral Line Scutes
The most definitive feature is the complete lateral line armed with 69-79 large, bony scutes, which are particularly prominent posteriorly. These scutes are keeled and provide a rough texture.
Opercular Spot
Presence of a distinct black spot on the upper part of the operculum (gill cover).
Dorsal Fins
Two distinct dorsal fins, the first spiny and triangular, the second longer and soft-rayed.
Body Shape
Elongated, fusiform body, slightly compressed laterally, typical of fast-swimming pelagic fish.
Habitat
- Tipo di acqua
- saltwater
- Profondità
- Typically found from the surface down to 200-300 meters, occasionally deeper (up to 1000 meters).
- Ambiente
- Pelagic and demersal-pelagic, inhabiting coastal and offshore waters over continental shelves and slopes. Forms large schools, especially during spawning and feeding aggregations.
- Areale geografico
- Eastern Atlantic Ocean from Norway to South Africa, including the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea. Also found in the western Indian Ocean off the coast of South Africa.
Informazioni sull'acquario
- Livello di cura: expert
- Temperamento: semi-aggressive
- Dieta: carnivore
- Dimensione minima della vasca: 2000 gallons
- Temperatura: 10-20°C (50-68°F)
- Livello di pH: 7.8-8.4
- Durezza: 8-12 dKH
- Compatibilità: Not suitable for typical home aquaria due to size, schooling behavior, and specific environmental needs. Best suited for large public aquariums with specialized cold-water systems. Compatible with other large, robust pelagic species.
- Requisiti speciali: Requires very large, open tanks with strong filtration and water movement. Needs a constant supply of live or fresh frozen prey. Prone to stress in confined environments. Not recommended for private aquarists.
Informazioni in natura
- Stato di conservazione: least concern
- Stagionalità: Available year-round in many areas, with peak catches often occurring during warmer months when they are more abundant in coastal waters.
- Prezzo di mercato: Variable, generally moderate to low depending on region and catch volume.
- Importanza commerciale: high
- Sapore: Mild, slightly oily, with a distinct savory flavor.
- Consistenza: Firm, flaky flesh.
- Metodi di cottura: Grilled, Fried, Baked, Smoked, Marinated
- Valore nutrizionale: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins B12 and D.
Fatti chiave
Schooling Behaviorbehavior
Atlantic Horse Mackerel form large, dense schools, especially during migration and feeding, which can be observed near the surface or in mid-water.
Dietary Generalistbehavior
They are opportunistic predators, feeding on a wide range of prey including small crustaceans (copepods, euphausiids), cephalopods, and other small fish (e.g., sardines, anchovies).
Ecological Importanceinteresting
Trachurus trachurus plays a crucial role in marine food webs, acting as a significant prey item for larger predatory fish, marine mammals, and seabirds.
Scute Functionevolution
The prominent scutes along the lateral line are believed to provide protection against predators and may also play a role in hydrodynamic efficiency during fast swimming.
Spawning Migrationsbehavior
This species undertakes extensive seasonal migrations, often moving to warmer, shallower waters for spawning and then dispersing to feeding grounds.
Informazioni di sicurezza
Sicuro- Livello di sicurezza: safe
- Velenoso: No
- Commestibilità: edible
- Note sul maneggio: Generally safe to handle. The scutes on the lateral line can be sharp, so care should be taken to avoid cuts. No venomous spines.
Specie simili
Mediterranean Horse Mackerel
Trachurus mediterraneus
Has a lateral line that is only partially covered with scutes, typically only on the posterior half. The scutes are also generally smaller and less numerous (50-65) than in T. trachurus. The black opercular spot is less distinct or absent.
Blue Runner
Caranx crysos
Possesses a more robust body, a larger mouth, and a less pronounced lateral line scute development, with scutes typically only on the posterior straight part of the lateral line. The overall coloration is often more golden or yellowish.
Rough Scad
Trachurus lathami
Found in the Western Atlantic. Similar in appearance but generally smaller, with fewer and less developed scutes on the lateral line, and a more slender body profile.
Classificazione scientifica
- Regno
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Classe
- Actinopterygii
- Ordine
- Carangiformes
- Famiglia
- Carangidae
- Genere
- Trachurus
- Specie
- Trachurus trachurus
Esplora Atlantic Horse Mackerel
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