Fin's Fish Guide
The Longfin silverside (Atherinella eriarcha) is a saltwater fish of the family Atherinopsidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The lesser silverside is a small schooling fish of the New World silverside family (Atherinopsidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a shining silver lateral stripe. It forms small schools in shallow bays and near coastal reefs. As an omnivore it feeds on small zooplankton and small invertebrates near the surface. As an abundant prey fish it is important to larger predatory fishes and seabirds. Reproduction is oviparous. Owing to its small size the species has little direct fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longfin silverside?
The Longfin silverside has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Glossy silvery longitudinal stripe; surface schooling fish of shallow bays.
Where does the Longfin silverside live?
The Longfin silverside lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; shallow bays and coastal reefs.
How big does the Longfin silverside get?
The Longfin silverside grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Longfin silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Longfin silverside is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Longfin silverside edible?
The Longfin silverside is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Atherinella
More from the family Atherinopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Longfin silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longfin silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.