Fin's Fish Guide
The Australian smelt (Retropinna semoni) is a brackish-water fish of the family Retropinnidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Australian smelt is a smelt (Retropinnidae) from cool fresh and brackish water of southeastern Australia. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, translucent, silvery body with an adipose fin and a characteristic cucumber-like smell. As a schooling fish it swims in clear rivers, lakes and estuaries and eats small zooplankton and insect larvae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian smelt?
The Australian smelt has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Australian smelt live?
The Australian smelt lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Australian smelt get?
The Australian smelt grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Australian smelt dangerous to humans?
No, the Australian smelt 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 Australian smelt edible?
Yes, the Australian smelt is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Retropinna
More from the family Retropinnidae
Want the complete picture on the Australian smelt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian smelt is one of 12,519 species in the app.