Como identificar Caboz-de-areia

Para identificar Caboz-de-areia (Pomatoschistus minutus), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

elongated

Coloração

Dorsal surface is typically sandy-brown to yellowish-grey, often mottled with darker spots and blotches that provide excellent camouflage against sandy or muddy bottoms. The ventral side is paler, usually whitish. Males often display more intense coloration, especially during breeding season, with darker markings and iridescent spots on the fins.

Tipo de escama

ctenoid

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Two distinct dorsal fins, the first with spiny rays and the second with soft rays., A prominent dark spot on the anterior part of the first dorsal fin., A small, dark spot at the base of the caudal fin., Eyes are relatively large and positioned dorsally., Body is covered in ctenoid scales, except for the head and nape which are scaleless.

Nadadeira dorsal

First dorsal fin: VI-VII (spiny rays); Second dorsal fin: I (spine) + 9-11 (soft rays). The first dorsal fin is typically lower than the second.

Nadadeira caudal

Rounded to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Nadadeira peitoral

16-19 rays, relatively large and fan-shaped.

Nadadeiras características

Pelvic fins are fused to form a suction cup-like disc, characteristic of gobies, used for clinging to substrates.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Body Coloration and Pattern

   Look for the sandy-brown to yellowish-grey body with cryptic mottling, allowing it to blend with the substrate. The presence of a dark spot on the anterior part of the first dorsal fin and another at the caudal fin base are key.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Observe the two distinct dorsal fins. The first is spiny and typically lower than the second, which has a single spine followed by soft rays.

3. 3

   Pelvic Fins

   Note the fused pelvic fins forming a disc, a characteristic feature of gobies, used for adhesion to surfaces.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults typically reach a maximum length of 11 cm, but are more commonly found between 4-8 cm.

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