Fin's Fish Guide
The Cayenne anchovy (Anchoviella cayennensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The Cayenne anchovy (Anchoviella cayennensis) is a small anchovy of the family Engraulidae from coastal waters of northern South America. The species has a slender, silvery body with a shining lateral stripe and reaches about 13 cm. It occurs along coastal zones and in estuaries and tolerates a range of salinities. As a plankton feeder it filters small zooplankton from the water and lives in schools. The species is an important prey for larger fishes and seabirds and is caught and eaten locally in subsistence fisheries. More research is needed on its precise distribution in fresh and fully marine water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cayenne anchovy?
The Cayenne anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Glossy longitudinal stripe; plankton-filtering schooling anchovy of coastal waters and estuaries.
Where does the Cayenne anchovy live?
The Cayenne anchovy lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Coastal zones and estuaries of northern South America.
How big does the Cayenne anchovy get?
The Cayenne anchovy grows to a maximum of about 14 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Cayenne anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Cayenne anchovy 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 Cayenne anchovy edible?
Yes, the Cayenne anchovy is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anchoviella
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the Cayenne anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cayenne anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.