Fin's Fish Guide
The Anchovy (Anchoa ischana) is a saltwater fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Eastern Pacific, mainly around the Gulf of California and Central America.
Description
The sharpnose anchovy is a small herring-like fish of the anchovy family (Engraulidae) of the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 17 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a shining silver lengthwise band and the pointed snout above a large mouth typical of anchovies. It forms dense schools in coastal waters, often over sand, gravel or mud bottoms. There it filters zooplankton from the water. The species is taken in subsistence fisheries and used as baitfish. It 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. Pointed snout above a large mouth and a shiny silver longitudinal band.
Where does the Anchovy live?
The Anchovy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific, mainly around the Gulf of California and Central America.
How big does the Anchovy get?
The Anchovy grows to a maximum of about 17 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Anchovy is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Anchovy edible?
Yes, the Anchovy is commonly eaten.
More photos
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.
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.