The Anchovy (Anchoa lucida) is a brackish-water fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The bright anchovy is a small schooling fish of the anchovy family (Engraulidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a bright silver lateral stripe and a projecting snout over an inferior mouth. It inhabits coastal waters but is most often recorded from bays, lagoons and estuaries, where it tolerates lowered salinities. The fish forms dense schools and feeds on zooplankton. As an abundant prey fish the bright anchovy is important to larger predatory fishes and seabirds. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Anchovy?
The Anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Anchovy live?
The Anchovy lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Anchovy get?
The Anchovy grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Anchovy is harmless to humans.
Is the Anchovy edible?
The Anchovy is rarely eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anchoa
More from the family Engraulidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.