Sunday, April 19, 2009

Caspian Grabs Atherinidae


Caspian Grab, originally uploaded by Nick Chill.

The key field marks on this fish identifying it as probably a Topsmelt (Atherinops affinis) is the relatively flat back, larger and more stiffly opened tail, conspicuous pectoral fin, and the smaller pointed head. The general stiffness of the body and white silver belly, silver striped side and green bronze dorsal surface also fit with Atherinidae ID. The abdominal anal fin is a shadow in the bill of the Caspian Tern which would be another great field mark. Because the fish is not showing an hint of blue hue it is probably not a Jacksmelt (A. californiensis), but Grunion (Leuresthes tenuis) can not be eliminated (by me at least). One other notable question about this photo is the black line streaming from the bill that seems to originate from the fish's belly. I would estimate this fish at 14-15 cm.

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