The Western hardyhead (Leptatherina wallacei) is a brackish-water fish of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The western hardyhead is a small silverside from fresh and brackish water of southwestern Australia. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a slender, translucent silvery body with a shiny lateral stripe. It schools in river mouths, coastal lakes and estuaries and tolerates strongly varying salinity. It feeds on small zooplankton and insect larvae. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Western hardyhead?
The Western hardyhead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Western hardyhead live?
The Western hardyhead lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Western hardyhead get?
The Western hardyhead grows to a maximum of about 7 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Western hardyhead dangerous to humans?
No, the Western hardyhead is harmless to humans.
Is the Western hardyhead edible?
The Western hardyhead is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Leptatherina
More from the family Atherinidae
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