Fin's Fish Guide
The Antarctic silverfish (Pleuragramma antarctica) is a saltwater fish of the family Nototheniidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Antarctic silverfish is a notothenioid fish of the family Nototheniidae and the only truly pelagic species of that family; it is endemic to the Southern Ocean around Antarctica. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a slender, silvery body. It lives in schools in open water and, like other icefishes, possesses antifreeze glycoproteins in its blood that let it survive in below-freezing water. As a plankton feeder it feeds on krill and other zooplankton. The Antarctic silverfish is a central link in the Southern Ocean food web and a main prey for penguins, seals and whales. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Antarctic silverfish?
The Antarctic silverfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. The only truly pelagic notothenioid; antifreeze glycoproteins in the blood, a central prey fish of the Southern Ocean.
Where does the Antarctic silverfish live?
The Antarctic silverfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Southern Ocean around Antarctica; pelagic in the open water.
How big does the Antarctic silverfish get?
The Antarctic silverfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Antarctic silverfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Antarctic silverfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Antarctic silverfish edible?
The Antarctic silverfish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Antarctic silverfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Antarctic silverfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Nototheniidae
Want the complete picture on the Antarctic silverfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Antarctic silverfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.