The Stokell's smelt (Stokellia anisodon) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Retropinnidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
Stokell's smelt is a small smelt (Retropinnidae) endemic to coastal waters and river mouths of the eastern South Island of New Zealand. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, translucent, silvery body with an adipose fin and a characteristic cucumber-like smell. As a schooling fish it swims in estuaries and the surf and filters small zooplankton; it runs in schools into river mouths to spawn. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Stokell's smelt?
The Stokell's smelt has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Stokell's smelt live?
The Stokell's smelt lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Stokell's smelt get?
The Stokell's smelt grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Stokell's smelt dangerous to humans?
No, the Stokell's smelt is harmless to humans.
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More from the family Retropinnidae
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