Fin's Fish Guide
The Brook silverside (Labidesthes sicculus) is a freshwater fish of the family Atherinopsidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The brook silverside (Labidesthes sicculus) is a slender, silvery fish of the family Atherinopsidae from eastern North America. The species has a strongly elongate, translucent body with a shining silver lateral stripe and a tapering mouth, and reaches about 13 cm. It stays near the surface of lakes, ponds and quiet sections of creeks and rivers, usually in open water. The diet consists of zooplankton, including copepods, cladocerans and midge larvae. The species is an important prey for larger fishes and waterbirds and is sensitive to disturbance of clear, clean water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brook silverside?
The Brook silverside has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender translucent body with a silvery longitudinal stripe; surface feeder in open water.
Where does the Brook silverside live?
The Brook silverside lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Lakes, ponds and rivers of eastern North America.
How big does the Brook silverside get?
The Brook silverside grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Brook silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Brook 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.
Is the Brook silverside edible?
The Brook silverside 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 Atherinopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Brook silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brook silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.