Fin's Fish Guide
The Maule silverside (Odontesthes mauleanum) is a freshwater fish of the family Atherinopsidae that grows up to 31 cm.
Description
The Maule silverside is a New World silverside (Atherinopsidae) from fresh and coastal water of central Chile. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a slender, elongate, silvery body with a shiny silver flank band and large eyes. As a schooling fish it swims near the surface of rivers, lakes and coastal lagoons and snaps at insects, larvae, small zooplankton and small fish. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Maule silverside?
The Maule silverside has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Maule silverside live?
The Maule silverside lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Chile
How big does the Maule silverside get?
The Maule silverside grows to a maximum of about 31 cm.
Is the Maule silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Maule silverside 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Odontesthes
More from the family Atherinopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Maule silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Maule silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.