Fin's Fish Guide
The Bearded hardyhead (Atherion elymus) is a saltwater fish of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The bearded hardyhead is a small silverside of the family Atherinidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches only about 6 cm and has a slender, semi-transparent silvery body with a shining lateral stripe and two separate dorsal fins. It forms loose schools that inhabit tide pools, rocky shores and reef margins, just below the surface. The diet consists of small zooplankton. The eggs are relatively large and attach to the substrate with filaments. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bearded hardyhead?
The Bearded hardyhead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Small, semi-translucent silverside of tide pools; forms loose shoals.
Where does the Bearded hardyhead live?
The Bearded hardyhead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, in tide pools and on rocky coasts.
How big does the Bearded hardyhead get?
The Bearded hardyhead grows to a maximum of about 6 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Bearded hardyhead dangerous to humans?
No, the Bearded hardyhead is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bearded hardyhead edible?
The Bearded hardyhead is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Atherinidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bearded hardyhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.