This Key will help in the identification of bony fishes observed in the SEINE Project. Follow the steps below. Drawings that illustrate the various categories can be observed by checking the radio buttons at the top of the page.

• When possible make observations when the fish is in the catch bucket, when small fishes are taken out of the water, their fins often collapse onto their bodies and are difficult to observe. Determine if the individual you are identifying has one or more than one dorsal fins.  In juvenile species, this requires careful observation; the fins are often small, soft and, blend with the body. Note if its eyes are on the same side of the body, whether it has a tubular snout or bill, if it's especially elongated, if it's lacking pelvic fins, or if it has spines preceding its dorsal fin. Lightly run your finger over the top of the fish (moving toward the head) to determine if it has dorsal spines and to determine if its dorsal fins are soft rayed, spiny or a combination of both. Observe the shape of the caudal fin and note whether it's forked, rounder or flat. Take a close up photograph of the fish that will allow you to determine its fin morphology.

• From the Species Categories navigation bar, choose the first category in the list that describes the fish you are identifying. A dichotomous key window will be displayed. The key will display a pair of options. Click on the option that best describes the fish.

• Addition options will be displayed which you must select between. When your selections are indicative of a unique species, its common name and a drawing will be displayed. If you feel you've incorrectly selected an option, click the reset button.