How to Identify the Dominant Archetype in Live Markets

Markets aren’t random—they’re ecosystems. Every candle reflects which trader archetype is in control: the Algo (Carnivore), the Strategy Trader (Omnivore), or the Degenerate Gambler (Herbivore). Misread the energy and you become the prey. Read it right and you anticipate the next move. This guide shows how to spot the dominant archetype in real time.

Triadic Archetypes — Quick Scan
Archetype Tells Your Play
Carnivore (Algo) Precision drives, one-way pushes, no retests, stop-runs Avoid chasing extremes; prepare fade or wait for structure
Omnivore (Strategy) RSI cooling, clean retests, MA alignment, volume quality Execute plan: mean-revert or follow-through with clear risk
Herbivore (Gambler) Late entries, erratic wicks, band chases, low-liquidity spikes Stand down or set traps; wait for liquidity to rotate

1) Volume + RSI = Market Thermodynamics

Volume is the crowd. RSI is the temperature.

  • High Vol + RSI > 70 or < 30 → Carnivore + Omnivore in harmony. Kill zone. Algos press extremes; Strategists time reversal.
  • Low Vol + RSI ≈ 50 → Herbivores grazing. Indecision, range, easy manipulation—bait territory.
  • Divergences (price up, volume down) → herd walking into a trap.

2) Moving Averages: Lines of Battle

  • 20 MA (stalking line): tight rides = algo precision attacks.
  • 50 MA (entry zone): bounces/fades = strategic, reactive plays.
  • 200 MA (comfort): snaps back = herd rebalances to “safety.”

Signals: Clean bounce off 50 MA with volume → Omnivores in control. Crashes blowing through all MAs → Carnivores feeding.

3) Candlestick Sentiment (Use the “Bible” with Context)

  • Engulfings / Pin Bars at Bollinger edges → Omnivores planning reversal.
  • Dojis, erratic wicks, fakeouts → Herbivores baited; Algos fed.
  • No retest after breakout → Algo efficiency; don’t chase.

If it looks like a trap and smells like a trap, it probably is. When RSI thermals + MA alignment are clean, it’s usually Omnivore orchestration.

4) Session Awareness: Who’s Awake?

Asian
Herbivores dominate. Low liquidity, slow grind. Prep & mapping.
London
Carnivores strike. Volatility, fakeouts, liquidity grabs.
New York
Omnivores attack. Clean setups, structured moves, decision volume.

5) Imbalance → Archetype Shift

  • Herbivore → Carnivore: Price pierces a band, quick whipsaw back.
  • Carnivore → Omnivore: Base near 50 MA + volume divergence.
  • Omnivore → Herbivore: Sloppy action, overconfidence, low-vol spikes.

Track these transitions—that’s where edge compounds.

Conclusion: The Eye of the Omnivore

Great trading isn’t just signals—it’s recognizing who is pushing price and why. Through the triadic lens you move from reaction to anticipation. Identify the dominant archetype, align with the flow, and let the market do the heavy lifting.



Trading involves substantial risk and may result in significant loss. Test on demo before live trading and consult a licensed financial advisor.