Como identificar Boca Negra

Para identificar Boca Negra (Helicolenus dactylopterus), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

compressed

Coloração

Variable, typically reddish-orange to pinkish-red dorsally, fading to a lighter pink or white ventrally. Often exhibits irregular dark blotches or bands on the body and fins. The inside of the mouth and gill cavity are distinctly dark, often bluish-black, giving rise to the common name 'Boca Negra' (black mouth) or 'Bluemouth Rockfish'.

Tipo de escama

ctenoid

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Large head with prominent eyes., Robust, compressed body., Distinctive dark (bluish-black) coloration inside the mouth and gill cavity., Presence of venomous spines in the dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins., A bony ridge below the eye (suborbital stay) with several spines.

Nadadeira dorsal

Single, long dorsal fin with 11-13 strong, venomous spines followed by 10-14 soft rays. A deep notch often separates the spinous and soft-rayed portions.

Nadadeira caudal

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Nadadeira peitoral

Large, fan-like pectoral fins with 17-20 rays, often reaching beyond the anus.

Nadadeiras características

Pelvic fins with 1 spine and 5 soft rays, located thoracically. Anal fin with 3 strong, venomous spines and 5-7 soft rays.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Mouth Coloration

   The most definitive feature is the dark, often bluish-black, coloration inside the mouth and gill cavity. This is unique among similar species in its range.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Color

   Robust, compressed body with reddish-orange to pinkish-red coloration, often with irregular dark blotches. This general appearance is typical of many rockfishes, but combined with other features, aids identification.

3. 3

   Spines

   Count the dorsal fin spines (11-13) and anal fin spines (3). Note the presence of a suborbital stay with spines below the eye.

4. 4

   Pectoral Fin Length

   The pectoral fins are relatively long, often extending past the anus.

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