The Blue silverside (Melanorhinus cyanellus) is a saltwater fish of the family Atherinopsidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The blue silverside is a small New World silverside (Atherinopsidae) from shallow coastal water of the eastern Pacific, off Central America. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a slender, semi-translucent body with a shiny, blue-green glowing silver flank band and large eyes. As a schooling fish it swims in large groups near the surface and snaps at small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue silverside?
The Blue silverside has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Blue silverside live?
The Blue silverside lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. North America: Costa Rica, Galapagos Is., Panama
How big does the Blue silverside get?
The Blue silverside grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Blue silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue silverside 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.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Atherinopsidae

Want the complete picture on the Blue silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.