The Longfin smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Osmeridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The longfin smelt is a slender, salmon-like smelt of the family Osmeridae reaching about 20 cm. The translucent silvery body has a greenish back, strikingly long pectoral fins and an adipose fin between the dorsal and tail fins; like other smelts, freshly caught fish smell of cucumber. The species occurs along the west coast of North America, in the north-eastern Pacific, and is anadromous: it lives in coastal waters and estuaries and runs up rivers to spawn. In schools it hunts zooplankton, mainly small crustaceans. As an abundant prey fish it is important food for larger fish, seabirds and marine mammals; some estuarine populations have declined through water use.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longfin smelt?
The Longfin smelt has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Longfin smelt live?
The Longfin smelt lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Longfin smelt get?
The Longfin smelt grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Longfin smelt dangerous to humans?
No, the Longfin smelt is harmless to humans.
Is the Longfin smelt edible?
The Longfin smelt 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 Spirinchus
More from the family Osmeridae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.