The Hardenberg anchovy (Stolephorus insularis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
Hardenberg's anchovy is a small anchovy from the Indo-West Pacific, from India to Indonesia and the Philippines. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, translucent silvery body with a shiny silver lateral band. It forms large schools in shallow coastal and lagoon water and filters small zooplankton. As a bait and food fish it is locally important. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hardenberg anchovy?
The Hardenberg anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Translucent schooling body with a shiny silver band
Where does the Hardenberg anchovy live?
The Hardenberg anchovy lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Hardenberg anchovy get?
The Hardenberg anchovy grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Hardenberg anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Hardenberg 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 Hardenberg anchovy edible?
Yes, the Hardenberg anchovy is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Hardenberg anchovy and live in the same waters.

Want the complete picture on the Hardenberg anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hardenberg anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stolephorus
More from the family Engraulidae

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