Fin's Fish Guide
The False anchovy (Thryssa encrasicholoides) is a saltwater fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Indo-West Pacific, in shoals in shallow, often turbid coastal and estuarine water.
Description
The false anchovy is a small, slender anchovy-like fish of the family Engraulidae reaching about 11 cm. Like the true anchovy it has a projecting, pointed snout and a large, downward-directed mouth; the silvery body bears a shining lengthwise stripe along the flank. The species lives in schools in shallow, often turbid coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. Hovering in the water it filters small zooplankton. Like other anchovies it forms massive schools that are an important food source for larger predatory fish and seabirds. Locally it is landed by small-scale coastal fisheries and eaten fresh or dried.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the False anchovy?
The False anchovy has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Small, slender anchovy-like fish with a projecting snout, a large, downturned mouth and a shiny silver longitudinal stripe.
Where does the False anchovy live?
The False anchovy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific, in shoals in shallow, often turbid coastal and estuarine water.
How big does the False anchovy get?
The False anchovy grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the False anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the False anchovy is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the False anchovy edible?
Yes, the False anchovy is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thryssa
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the False anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the False anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.