The Lopez silverside (Atherina lopeziana) is a saltwater fish of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
Lopez's silverside is a slender, translucent silvery fish of the family Atherinidae (silversides) reaching about 8 cm. The streamlined body bears a shining silver lengthwise stripe along the flank and has large eyes and two separate dorsal fins, characteristic of the silversides. The species lives in schools in shallow coastal water of the eastern Atlantic around the Macaronesian islands and West Africa. Hovering in the water it filters small zooplankton. The eggs have adhesive threads with which they attach to water plants and weeds. Like other silversides it forms schools that are an important food source for larger predatory fish and seabirds. Because of its small size it has little direct fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lopez silverside?
The Lopez silverside has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Lopez silverside live?
The Lopez silverside lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Lopez silverside get?
The Lopez silverside grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Lopez silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Lopez silverside is harmless to humans.
Is the Lopez silverside edible?
The Lopez silverside is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Atherina
More from the family Atherinidae
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