Fin's Fish Guide
The Hardhead silverside (Atherinomorus stipes) is a saltwater fish of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean, in shallow coastal water over seagrass, coral and mangroves.
Description
The hardhead silverside is a slender, semi-transparent fish of the family Atherinidae reaching about 10 cm. A conspicuous, shiny silver band runs along the side; the back is greenish and the body has two small, separate dorsal fins. The species forms dense, glittering schools in shallow coastal water over seagrass, coral and mangroves in the western Atlantic and the Caribbean. It eats zooplankton, especially copepods and larvae. Through its enormous numbers it is an indispensable prey fish for predators, seabirds and larger reef fish; the glittering schools are a familiar sight on the shallow reef.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hardhead silverside?
The Hardhead silverside has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender, translucent small reef fish with a shiny silver longitudinal band; forms dense, glittering shoals above seagrass and coral.
Where does the Hardhead silverside live?
The Hardhead silverside lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, in shallow coastal water over seagrass, coral and mangroves.
How big does the Hardhead silverside get?
The Hardhead silverside grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Hardhead silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Hardhead silverside is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Hardhead silverside edible?
The Hardhead silverside is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Atherinomorus
More from the family Atherinidae
Want the complete picture on the Hardhead silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hardhead silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.