Fin's Fish Guide
The Anchovy (Anchoviella lepidentostole) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The broadband anchovy is an anchovy of the family Engraulidae from the western Atlantic off South America. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a broad, shining silver lateral band. It forms schools in coastal waters near shore and is probably anadromous: it enters estuaries and the lower parts of rivers to spawn. As a plankton feeder it filters small zooplankton from the water. As an abundant prey fish it is an important link in the coastal food web and of local fishery value. 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. Broad, glossy silver longitudinal band; probably anadromous, abundant coastal schooling fish.
Where does the Anchovy live?
The Anchovy lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic; coastal waters and estuaries off South America.
How big does the Anchovy get?
The Anchovy grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 9 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?
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 Anchoviella
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.