How do you properly post fish measurements?

[erinsunshine]

When posting your fish's size/length, what is the proper way to measure? Are you supposed to exclude the caudal fin?

 

[hle_81]

I measure my fishes from head to tail.

 

[fishdance]

You can use either but should state Total Length (nose to end of tail/caudal) or Standard Length (nose to base of tail). I prefer SL myself since there are many longfin varieties about.

 

[Mystix212]

Standard Length, SL is far better than Total Length, TL, because many species of fish have naturally long tail's, such as angels. My regular angel has all standard fins, but its caudual length is about 1.5". Its body being 3.5". So, if I were to say my '4.5' angel, that would indicate much more different circumstances. meaning the fish is older, bigger, etc. When in fact, its SL is only 3.5".

 

[balton777]

I always give TL. I don't get why you wouldn't include tail length...after all it's part of the fish right? Whether it has a naturally long caudal or not when I view my fish, I see the total length of it...the tail doesn't disappear.

 

[rjmtx]

Also, mearsure it in mm (if you want to do it properly).

 

[Alistriwen]

I measure without the tail. Fins don't really add much to a fish except looks. I don't think there is much active tissue in them.

 

[Nova 8]

I always give TL. I don't get why you wouldn't include tail length...after all it's part of the fish right? Whether it has a naturally long caudal or not when I view my fish, I see the total length of it...the tail doesn't disappear.

Agreed, I'd be pissed if someone measured me but didn't include my legs.

I measure without the tail. Fins don't really add much to a fish except looks. I don't think there is much active tissue in them.

Take the tail off your fish and see how good it swims.

 

[rjmtx]

Just write TL or SL after whatever length you say to make it clear. Around here, I just assume everyone is talking in TL unless they say otherwise.

 

[Wolf3101]

I refuse to be dragged kicking and screaming into the metric world thank you very much. they will bury me in a PINE box thats measured in inches and feet.... LOL