Como identificar Tarpon

Para identificar Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

torpedo

Coloração

Silvery flanks and belly, with a dark blue to greenish-black dorsal surface. The large scales often have a reflective, iridescent quality.

Tipo de escama

cycloid

Posição da boca

superior

Características distintivas

Large, prominent scales (cycloid type, up to 6 cm in diameter), Large, upturned mouth with a protruding lower jaw, Large eyes, Elongated last ray of the dorsal fin, extending almost to the caudal fin, Forked caudal fin, Ability to gulp air at the surface

Nadadeira dorsal

Single dorsal fin, located mid-body, with 10-13 soft rays; the last ray is greatly elongated and filamentous.

Nadadeira caudal

Deeply forked caudal fin, powerful and symmetrical.

Nadadeira peitoral

Relatively small, low-set pectoral fins.

Nadadeiras características

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins. Anal fin is similar in shape to the dorsal fin but smaller, with 22-25 soft rays.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Size and Shape

   Large, elongated, and compressed body, reaching up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length and over 160 kg (350 lbs) in weight.

2. 2

   Scales

   Very large, silvery, and reflective scales, often described as 'armor-plated'.

3. 3

   Mouth

   Distinctive large, upturned mouth with a prominent lower jaw, giving it a 'snub-nosed' appearance.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin

   The last ray of the dorsal fin is greatly elongated, forming a distinctive filament that can extend almost to the tail.

5. 5

   Coloration

   Brilliant silver sides and belly, with a darker, often bluish-green or grayish-black back.

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