Como identificar European Eel

Para identificar European Eel (Anguilla anguilla), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

eel-like

Coloração

Varies with life stage. Leptocephali are transparent. Glass eels are transparent. Elvers are dark brown to black. Yellow eels have a yellowish-brown to olive-green dorsal side and a yellowish belly. Silver eels develop a silvery-white belly and dark back, with enlarged eyes and pectoral fins.

Tipo de escama

cycloid

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Elongated, snake-like body, Small, pointed head, Small, gill openings located ventrally, Continuous dorsal, caudal, and anal fins forming a single fringe around the posterior body, Small, embedded scales (often not visible to the naked eye), Prominent lower jaw

Nadadeira dorsal

Long, continuous, originating far behind the pectoral fins and merging with the caudal and anal fins.

Nadadeira caudal

Rounded, confluent with dorsal and anal fins.

Nadadeira peitoral

Small, fan-like, located just behind the head.

Nadadeiras características

Absence of pelvic fins.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Body Shape

   The most striking feature is its elongated, serpentine body, which is almost cylindrical anteriorly and slightly compressed posteriorly.

2. 2

   Fin Structure

   The continuous dorsal, caudal, and anal fins, forming a single fringe along the back and underside of the posterior body, are characteristic. The absence of pelvic fins is also a key identifier.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Observe the color, which changes with age and life stage. Yellow eels have a distinct yellowish belly, while silver eels are silvery-white ventrally.

4. 4

   Gill Openings

   Small, slit-like gill openings are located ventrally, just anterior to the pectoral fins.

Explore European Eel