Como identificar Garoupa-leopardo

Para identificar Garoupa-leopardo (Epinephelus malabaricus), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

elongated

Coloração

Body is typically pale yellowish-brown to greenish-grey, covered with numerous irregular dark brown to black spots and blotches of varying sizes. These spots often coalesce to form larger patches, especially on the head and anterior body. Smaller, more numerous dark spots are present on the fins. Juveniles often display more distinct banding.

Tipo de escama

ctenoid

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Large, robust body, Mottled pattern of dark spots and blotches, Large mouth with several rows of sharp teeth, Rounded caudal fin in adults, Three to five rows of teeth on the mid-side of the lower jaw

Nadadeira dorsal

Single dorsal fin with 10-11 spines and 14-16 soft rays. The spiny portion is continuous with the soft-rayed portion.

Nadadeira caudal

Caudal fin is rounded in adults, slightly emarginate in juveniles.

Nadadeira peitoral

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded, with 18-20 rays.

Nadadeiras características

Anal fin has 3 spines and 8 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Coloration and Pattern

   Look for the distinctive mottled pattern of irregular dark brown to black spots and blotches on a lighter background. The spots are highly variable in size and shape.

2. 2

   Caudal Fin Shape

   Adults typically have a rounded caudal fin, which can help distinguish it from some other grouper species with truncate or emarginate tails.

3. 3

   Mouth and Jaw

   Observe the large mouth and the presence of multiple rows of teeth on the mid-side of the lower jaw (3-5 rows), a key diagnostic feature.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Its robust, elongated body is characteristic of many grouper species, but combined with the unique spotting, it aids in identification.

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