The Eigenmann's anchovy (Anchoa eigenmannia) is a saltwater fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 8 cm.
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Description
Eigenmann's anchovy is a small anchovy of the family Engraulidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a shining silver lateral stripe and a pointed snout above an inferior mouth. It forms schools in coastal waters and enters bays and estuaries, such as the Gulf of Nicoya in Costa Rica. As a plankton feeder it filters small zooplankton from the water. As an extremely abundant prey fish it is an important link in the coastal food web for larger predatory fishes and seabirds. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eigenmann's anchovy?
The Eigenmann's anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Glossy silvery longitudinal stripe; numerous coastal schooling fish that enters bays and estuaries.
Where does the Eigenmann's anchovy live?
The Eigenmann's anchovy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific; coastal waters, bays and estuaries.
How big does the Eigenmann's anchovy get?
The Eigenmann's anchovy grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Eigenmann's anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Eigenmann's anchovy is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Eigenmann's anchovy edible?
The Eigenmann's 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
Want the complete picture on the Eigenmann's anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eigenmann's anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone