Fin's Fish Guide
The Broad-striped anchovy (Anchoa hepsetus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Western Atlantic from the USA to Uruguay, in coastal water, bays and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The broad-striped anchovy is a slender, translucent fish of the family Engraulidae (anchovies) reaching about 15 cm. A broad, shiny lengthwise band runs along the silvery flank; the snout overhangs the large, inferior mouth, with which the fish filters plankton from the water as it swims. The species forms large schools in coastal water, bays and estuaries along the western Atlantic coast and tolerates brackish water. It mainly eats copepods and other zooplankton, supplemented with fish larvae. Through its enormous numbers it is an indispensable prey fish for larger fish, seabirds and marine mammals, and is much used as bait.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broad-striped anchovy?
The Broad-striped anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender, translucent small anchovy with a broad silver longitudinal band and a large mouth beneath a projecting snout.
Where does the Broad-striped anchovy live?
The Broad-striped anchovy lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic from the USA to Uruguay, in coastal water, bays and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Broad-striped anchovy get?
The Broad-striped anchovy grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 11 cm.
Is the Broad-striped anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Broad-striped anchovy is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Broad-striped anchovy edible?
The Broad-striped anchovy is rarely eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Anchoa
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the Broad-striped anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broad-striped anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.