Fin's Fish Guide
The Common hairfin anchovy (Setipinna tenuifilis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The common hairfin anchovy is a small herring relative from the Indo-West Pacific, in coastal and estuarine water of South and Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 22 cm and has a laterally strongly compressed, silvery body with a sharp belly edge and a conspicuously long, thread-like first pectoral fin ray. It forms schools and filters small zooplankton. It is a heavily caught food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common hairfin anchovy?
The Common hairfin anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Long thread-like pectoral fin ray; sharp belly edge
Where does the Common hairfin anchovy live?
The Common hairfin anchovy lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Common hairfin anchovy get?
The Common hairfin anchovy grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Common hairfin anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Common hairfin 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 Common hairfin anchovy edible?
Yes, the Common hairfin anchovy is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Setipinna
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the Common hairfin anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common hairfin anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.