The Anchovy (Anchoa panamensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The Panama anchovy is a small anchovy (Engraulidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has a slender, silvery body with a shiny silver lengthwise band and a projecting snout above a large, inferior mouth. It lives in large schools in coastal waters and probably tolerates lowered salinities. With its fine gill rakers it filters small zooplankton from the water. It is an important prey fish for larger predators and seabirds. The species 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 plain 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 19 cm.
Is the Anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Anchovy is harmless to humans.
Is the Anchovy edible?
The Anchovy is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anchoa
More from the family Engraulidae
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