Fin's Fish Guide
The Anchovy (Anchoa argentivittata) is a saltwater fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The silverstripe anchovy is an anchovy (Engraulidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species is small and slender with a translucent body and a conspicuous silver lengthwise stripe along the flank, and an inferior mouth with a pointed snout. It forms schools in coastal waters, often over sand or gravel bottoms. It feeds on zooplankton it filters from the water. It is an important prey fish. 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 horizontal stripes pattern. Striking silvery flank stripe; schooling plankton-sieving anchovy and prey fish.
Where does the Anchovy live?
The Anchovy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific; coastal waters.
How big does the Anchovy get?
The Anchovy grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Anchovy is harmless to humans. None required: this species 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
Want the complete picture on the Anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.