Fin's Fish Guide
The Flathead silverside (Hypoatherina valenciennei) is a brackish-water fish of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
Valenciennes' silverside is a small silverside from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, translucent body with a shiny silver lateral band, characteristic of the silversides. It forms schools in shallow coastal and lagoon water and feeds on small zooplankton. As a bait fish it provides food for larger predators. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flathead silverside?
The Flathead silverside has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Translucent small schooling fish with a shiny silver band
Where does the Flathead silverside live?
The Flathead silverside lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Flathead silverside get?
The Flathead silverside grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Flathead silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Flathead silverside 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 Flathead silverside edible?
Yes, the Flathead silverside is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hypoatherina
More from the family Atherinidae
Want the complete picture on the Flathead silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flathead silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.