Como identificar Largemouth Bass

Para identificar Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

torpedo

Coloração

Typically dark green to olive green on the back, fading to lighter green or yellowish-white on the sides and belly. A prominent, irregular, horizontal dark stripe or series of blotches runs along the lateral line from the operculum to the caudal fin. Coloration can vary significantly based on habitat and water clarity.

Tipo de escama

ctenoid

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Large mouth, with the upper jaw extending beyond the posterior margin of the eye when closed., Deeply notched dorsal fin, appearing almost as two separate fins., Lateral line with 59-70 scales., Typically 6-8 dorsal spines and 12-13 dorsal soft rays; 3 anal spines and 10-11 anal soft rays.

Nadadeira dorsal

Deeply notched, almost separated into a spiny anterior portion (6-8 spines) and a soft-rayed posterior portion (12-13 rays).

Nadadeira caudal

Slightly forked, typically dark with some lighter mottling.

Nadadeira peitoral

Relatively small, clear to slightly dusky.

Nadadeiras características

The deeply notched dorsal fin is a key distinguishing feature among black basses.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Mouth Size

   The most definitive feature: the upper jaw extends past the rear margin of the eye when the mouth is closed. This distinguishes it from the Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu) where the jaw typically does not extend past the eye.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin

   The dorsal fin is deeply notched, almost appearing as two separate fins. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are clearly distinct.

3. 3

   Lateral Stripe

   A prominent, often broken or blotchy, dark horizontal stripe runs along the lateral line. This stripe is usually more distinct than in other black bass species.

4. 4

   Scales on Cheek

   Scales on the cheek are typically smaller than those on the operculum.

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