Decapterus
Decapterus is a genus of fish in the family Carangidae, commonly known as scads. They are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, inhabiting coastal areas and the open ocean. Scads are important commercially and are often targeted by fisheries. The genus Decapterus comprises around 15 species, all of which share common features such as a streamlined body, forked tail, and a series of spines on the dorsal fin.
Common Names
Decapterus species are commonly known as scads, but they can also have other names depending on the species and location. Some common names include:
- Mackerel scad
- Round scad
- Indian scad
- Striped scad
- White scad
Characteristics
Decapterus species have several distinguishing characteristics that help identify them:
- Streamlined body: Their bodies are elongated and streamlined, allowing for efficient swimming.
- Forked tail: Their tail is deeply forked, providing powerful propulsion for rapid movement.
- Dorsal fin: They have a single dorsal fin with a series of spines followed by soft rays. The spines are typically strong and sharp.
- Lateral line: The lateral line is slightly curved, extending along the side of the body.
- Scales: Their scales are small and smooth, covering their body.
- Coloration: They have a variety of color patterns, often with silvery or bluish bodies and darker stripes or spots.
Environments
Decapterus species are found in a wide range of marine environments, including:
- Coastal areas: They are often found close to shore, in bays, estuaries, and reefs.
- Open ocean: They can also be found in the open ocean, particularly in areas with strong currents and abundant food.
- Pelagic zone: They are primarily pelagic fish, living in the water column away from the bottom.
References
For further information on Decapterus, refer to these reliable sources: