Fin's Fish Guide
The Common asohos (Sillago sihama) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sillaginidae that grows up to 31 cm.
Sandy beaches, estuaries and mangroves of the Indian and western Pacific Ocean.
Description
The silver sillago (Sillago sihama) is a slender coastal fish of the family Sillaginidae from the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. The species has an elongate, sand-coloured to silvery body with a pointed head and ventral mouth, and reaches about 31 cm. It is common along sandy beaches, sandbars, mangrove creeks and estuaries and sometimes occurs in fresh water. It forms schools and quickly buries itself in the sand when disturbed. The diet consists mainly of polychaete worms, small prawns and other bottom invertebrates. The species has delicate, valued flesh and is an important food fish that is fished commercially.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common asohos?
The Common asohos has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Buries itself quickly in the sand when disturbed; valued coastal food fish.
Where does the Common asohos live?
The Common asohos lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Sandy beaches, estuaries and mangroves of the Indian and western Pacific Ocean.
How big does the Common asohos get?
The Common asohos grows to a maximum of about 31 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Common asohos dangerous to humans?
No, the Common asohos 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 Common asohos edible?
Yes, the Common asohos is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sillago
More from the family Sillaginidae
Want the complete picture on the Common asohos?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common asohos is one of 12,519 species in the app.