The Flower of the wave (Iso rhothophilus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Isonidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The surf sprite is a small silverside from the southwest Pacific, off Australia. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, translucent silvery body adapted to life in the turbulent surf zone. It schools in dense numbers just behind the breaking waves along sandy beaches and rocky shores and feeds on small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flower of the wave?
The Flower of the wave has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Translucent body adapted to the surf; densely schooling silverside
Where does the Flower of the wave live?
The Flower of the wave lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Southwest Pacific
How big does the Flower of the wave get?
The Flower of the wave grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Flower of the wave dangerous to humans?
No, the Flower of the wave 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 Flower of the wave edible?
The Flower of the wave is not usually eaten.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Iso
More from the family Isonidae

Want the complete picture on the Flower of the wave?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flower of the wave is one of 12,519 species in the app.