Fin's Fish Guide
The Argentine anchoita (Engraulis anchoita) is a saltwater fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The Argentine anchovy is an anchovy (Engraulidae) from the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. The species has a slender, silvery body with a shiny silver lengthwise band and a projecting snout above a large mouth. It occurs in coastal waters up to 800 km offshore and forms dense schools in summer at about 30 to 90 m depth. With its fine gill rakers it filters small zooplankton from the water. It is a very important prey and food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Argentine anchoita?
The Argentine anchoita has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Glossy silvery longitudinal band; forms dense shoals, very important prey and food fish.
Where does the Argentine anchoita live?
The Argentine anchoita lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Southwest Atlantic; coastal to offshore waters.
How big does the Argentine anchoita get?
The Argentine anchoita grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Argentine anchoita dangerous to humans?
No, the Argentine anchoita is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Argentine anchoita edible?
Yes, the Argentine anchoita is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Engraulis
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the Argentine anchoita?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Argentine anchoita is one of 12,519 species in the app.