Cnesterodon decemmaculatus (Jenyns, 1842)

Initial Scientific Naming

This species, Cnesterodon decemmaculatus, was originally described scientifically by Jenyns in 1843.

Description Publication Details

The description was published in the section titled "Fish", edited by Charles Darwin, within The Zoology of the Voyage of H.M.S. Beagle, during the years 1832-1836, London, part 4, 172 pages.

Body and Head Shape

In terms of physical description, Cnesterodon decemmaculatus has an elongated body build, with a small, pointed head.

Base Body Coloration

Its base body color ranges from olive to yellow, and its belly is silvery.

Flank Markings

A black band formed by seven to eleven narrow vertical stripes runs along its flanks.

Fin Coloration

All of its fins are colorless, except that under some conditions, the dorsal and caudal fins can show dull black edging; this edging depends on the fish's current mood.

Male Reproductive Morphology

For reproduction, males of this species have an angled gonopodium positioned on the anterior side of the body.

Female Reproductive Morphology

Females typically have a bulging body that grows larger as their gestation progresses.