Fin's Fish Guide
The Cuban anchovy (Anchoa cubana) is a saltwater fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Cuban anchovy is a small herring-like fish of the anchovy family (Engraulidae) of the western Atlantic. The species reaches only about 10 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with a shining silver lengthwise band and the far-back mouth beneath a projecting snout typical of anchovies. It forms dense schools in coastal waters, often close along beaches in water a metre or less deep. There it filters zooplankton from the water. The species is taken in subsistence fisheries and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cuban anchovy?
The Cuban anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Glossy silvery longitudinal band and a projecting snout above a large mouth.
Where does the Cuban anchovy live?
The Cuban anchovy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic, from the southern USA to Brazil.
How big does the Cuban anchovy get?
The Cuban anchovy grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Cuban anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Cuban 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 Cuban anchovy edible?
Yes, the Cuban anchovy is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anchoa
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the Cuban anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cuban anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.