Biometric characters of cobia Rachycentron canadum (Linnaeus, 1766) from the Iraqi marine waters

Abbas  J. Al-Faisal; Falah M. Mutlak

Authors

Abbas J. Al-Faisal Department of Marine vertebrate, Marine Science Center, University of Basrah
Falah M. Mutlak Department of Marine vertebrate, Marine Science Center, University of Basrah

Keywords:

Morphometric, meristic characters, Rachycentron canadum, Iraq.

Abstract

The first biometric data on cobia, R. canadum, are reported from Iraqi marine waters. The samples were collected incidentally in March 2026, as cobia are rare in the region. The total length of the specimens collected ranged from 662 to 715 mm. The samples of cobia are distinguished by an elongate, subcylindrical body (body depth 16.94 - 18.56% SL), a broad, flattened head (head width 12.64 - 15.59% SL) and unique separate 8 -9 dorsal spines. The specimens were dark brown on the upper body, with paler brown on the sides and underside. One individual exhibits a very distinct black lateral band, which tends to fade in the others.

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