The Brazilian silverside (Atherinella brasiliensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Atherinopsidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The Brazilian silverside is a silverside (Atherinopsidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species is slender and silvery with a shiny silver lengthwise band. It lives over soft bottoms in brackish and hypersaline coastal lagoons and protected parts of the coast, and forms large schools. At and near the surface it feeds on small zooplankton, small invertebrates and algae. It is an important prey fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brazilian silverside?
The Brazilian silverside has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Brazilian silverside live?
The Brazilian silverside lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Brazilian silverside get?
The Brazilian silverside grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Brazilian silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Brazilian silverside is harmless to humans.
Is the Brazilian silverside edible?
The Brazilian silverside is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Atherinella
More from the family Atherinopsidae
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