Scomberomorus multiradiatus Munro, 1964
Papuan seerfish
Scomberomorus multiradiatus
photo by FAO

Family:  Scombridae (Mackerels, tunas, bonitos), subfamily: Scombrinae
Max. size:  35 cm FL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 500.0 g
Environment:  pelagic-neritic; brackish; marine, oceanodromous
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific: endemic to the Gulf of Papua off the mouth of the Fly River.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 16-19; Dorsal soft rays (total): 21-25; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 25-29; Vertebrae: 54-56. Interpelvic process small and bifid. Lateral line gradually curving down toward caudal peduncle. Vertebrae 20-21 precaudal plus 34-36 caudal, total 54-56. Intestine with 2 folds and 3 limbs. Swim bladder absent. Body covered with small scales. First dorsal fin black anteriorly and along distal edge posteriorly. Has the most number of vertebrae and anal fin rays in the genus. Sides silvery without spots, blotches or bars.
Biology:  Neritic species found in turbid waters. Sexual maturity is attained at much less than 30 cm fork length. The smallest species in the genus.
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 25 August 2022 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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