Fin's Fish Guide
Broad-banded hardyhead
The Broad-banded hardyhead (Atherinomorus lacunosus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
Atherinomorus lacunosus is a silverside of the family Atherinidae from coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The species has a slender, translucent silvery body with a broad, shining silver lateral stripe and reaches about 25 cm. It is common in large schools along sandy shores and reef margins and is mainly nocturnal, when the schools disperse to forage. The diet consists of various planktonic crustaceans. The species is an important prey for sharks, tunas and other predators and is fished locally and used as bait.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broad-banded hardyhead?
The Broad-banded hardyhead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Broad silvery longitudinal stripe; forms very large shoals that forage at night.
Where does the Broad-banded hardyhead live?
The Broad-banded hardyhead lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
How big does the Broad-banded hardyhead get?
The Broad-banded hardyhead grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Broad-banded hardyhead dangerous to humans?
No, the Broad-banded hardyhead 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 Broad-banded hardyhead edible?
Yes, the Broad-banded hardyhead is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Broad-banded hardyhead and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Atherinomorus
More from the family Atherinidae
Want the complete picture on the Broad-banded hardyhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broad-banded hardyhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.