How does the extension of the lower lateral line on the White Bass distinguish it from the White Perch?
Answer
The lower lateral line on the White Bass typically does not extend forward past the vertical line drawn through the origin of the dorsal fin.
A subtle but crucial differentiating factor between the White Bass and the White Perch involves the forward extent of the lowest horizontal stripe or lateral line. For the White Bass, this lower line segment has a defined boundary; it characteristically stops short of reaching the vertical line that would be drawn upward from where the dorsal fin begins. If this lower stripe were observed to extend further forward than this demarcation point, it would suggest the fish is likely a White Perch, not a true White Bass.

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