Fin's Fish Guide
The Malabar anchovy (Thryssa malabarica) is a brackish-water fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The Malabar anchovy is an anchovy (Engraulidae) from coastal and estuarine water of the northern Indian Ocean, off South Asia. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a slender, silvery, laterally compressed body with a pointed snout and a large mouth. It swims in large schools in shallow coastal water and river mouths and filters small zooplankton. It is a food and bait fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Malabar anchovy?
The Malabar anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Malabar anchovy live?
The Malabar anchovy lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, Andaman Is.
How big does the Malabar anchovy get?
The Malabar anchovy grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Malabar anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Malabar 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 Malabar anchovy edible?
Yes, the Malabar anchovy is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Malabar anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Malabar anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thryssa
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the Malabar anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Malabar anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.