Fin's Fish Guide
The Anchovy (Anchovia clupeoides) is a brackish-water fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
Anchovia clupeoides, the Zabaleta anchovy, is an anchovy of the family Engraulidae from coastal waters of northern and eastern South America. The species has a silvery, streamlined body with a broad head and reaches about 30 cm, large for an anchovy. It forms quite large schools in shallow coastal water, estuaries, mangroves and lagoons and penetrates into almost fresh water. It is a plankton feeder that filters plankton from the water with its gill rakers. The species is marketed locally, although its commercial importance is limited. Little information is available on its reproduction.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Anchovy?
The Anchovy has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large anchovy with a broad head; filters plankton in large shoals.
Where does the Anchovy live?
The Anchovy lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Shallow coastal waters, estuaries and mangroves of South America.
How big does the Anchovy get?
The Anchovy grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 17 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?
The Anchovy is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anchovia
More from the family Engraulidae
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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.