Fin's Fish Guide
The Longfinger anchovy (Anchoa filifera) is a brackish-water fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The longfinger anchovy is a small anchovy from the western Atlantic, along the coasts of Central and South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a shiny silver lateral stripe and an elongate rear dorsal-fin ray. It schools in large numbers in shallow coastal and estuarine water and filters small zooplankton from the water with its large mouth. It is an important forage fish for larger predators. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longfinger anchovy?
The Longfinger anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Silvery lateral stripe and elongated dorsal fin ray; schooling plankton filter feeder
Where does the Longfinger anchovy live?
The Longfinger anchovy lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic
How big does the Longfinger anchovy get?
The Longfinger anchovy grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Longfinger anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Longfinger 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 Longfinger anchovy edible?
The Longfinger anchovy is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anchoa
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the Longfinger anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longfinger anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.