Como identificar Ruivaca

Para identificar Ruivaca (Achondrostoma oligolepis), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

elongated

Coloração

The dorsal side is typically dark olive to brownish, fading to silvery flanks and a whitish belly. Fins are generally translucent, sometimes with a yellowish or reddish tint, especially during breeding season in males. A faint lateral line may be visible.

Tipo de escama

cycloid

Posição da boca

subterminal

Características distintivas

Relatively large, sparse scales (oligolepis means 'few scales'), Small, subterminal mouth, Streamlined body, Absence of barbels

Nadadeira dorsal

Single, short dorsal fin with 8-9 branched rays, positioned slightly anterior to the anal fin origin.

Nadadeira caudal

Forked caudal fin, moderately emarginate.

Nadadeira peitoral

Paired pectoral fins, relatively small.

Nadadeiras características

Pelvic fins are abdominal, positioned well behind the pectoral fins. All fins are soft-rayed.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Scale Count

   Count the number of scales along the lateral line. Achondrostoma oligolepis typically has 34-39 scales on the lateral line, which is fewer than many other Iberian cyprinids, hence its specific name 'oligolepis' (few scales).

2. 2

   Mouth Position

   Observe the mouth. It is small and subterminal, meaning it is located slightly below the tip of the snout, adapted for grazing on benthic organisms.

3. 3

   Barbels

   Check for barbels around the mouth. Achondrostoma oligolepis lacks barbels, which distinguishes it from some other cyprinid species.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Note the streamlined, fusiform body shape, indicative of a species adapted to flowing water.

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