Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese smelt (Hypomesus nipponensis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Osmeridae that grows up to 17 cm.
East Asia: northern Honshu and Hokkaido (Japan), Korea, Sakhalin and the Russian Far East.
Description
The Japanese smelt or wakasagi is a small, slender smelt of the family Osmeridae, usually around 10 cm. The silvery body carries a small adipose fin behind the dorsal fin, typical of smelts. The species lives in freshwater lakes and brackish estuaries across East Asia, including Japan, Korea and the Russian Far East, and has been introduced into Californian reservoirs since 1959, where it can hybridise with the endangered delta smelt. It is a schooling fish that feeds on plankton and spawns in shallow water in spring. In Japan it is regularly eaten and supports local fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese smelt?
The Japanese smelt has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, slender smelt with an adipose fin; lives in fresh and brackish water and can hybridise with the delta smelt.
Where does the Japanese smelt live?
The Japanese smelt lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. East Asia: northern Honshu and Hokkaido (Japan), Korea, Sakhalin and the Russian Far East.
How big does the Japanese smelt get?
The Japanese smelt grows to a maximum of about 17 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Japanese smelt dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese smelt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Japanese smelt edible?
Yes, the Japanese smelt is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Japanese smelt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese smelt is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hypomesus
More from the family Osmeridae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese smelt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese smelt is one of 12,519 species in the app.