Fin's Fish Guide
The Anchovy (Anchovia surinamensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Surinam anchovy is a small, slender herring-like fish of the family Engraulidae occurring in estuaries and rivers of northern South America. The species has a silvery, streamlined body with a shining lateral stripe and a downturned mouth with an overhanging snout. It is a schooling fish that filters plankton from the water. In certain months, especially February and March, the species is very abundant and then forms an important part of the local fishery. The fish is regularly eaten and reaches a length of about 15 cm.
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. Silvery longitudinal stripe and overhanging snout; filters plankton in shoals.
Where does the Anchovy live?
The Anchovy lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Estuaries and rivers of northern South America.
How big does the Anchovy get?
The Anchovy grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 8 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.
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 Anchovia
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.