Fin's Fish Guide
The Anchovy kilka (Clupeonella engrauliformis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The Anchovy kilka is a small herring relative (Clupeidae) from the brackish water of the Caspian Sea. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, bright-silvery body with a keeled belly and large eyes. As an open-water schooling fish it swims in enormous groups and filters small zooplankton. It is an extremely important commercial fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Anchovy kilka?
The Anchovy kilka has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Anchovy kilka live?
The Anchovy kilka lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia, Turkmenistan
How big does the Anchovy kilka get?
The Anchovy kilka grows to a maximum of about 17 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Anchovy kilka dangerous to humans?
No, the Anchovy kilka 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 kilka edible?
Yes, the Anchovy kilka is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Clupeonella
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Anchovy kilka?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Anchovy kilka is one of 12,519 species in the app.