Fin's Fish Guide
The North-west hardyhead (Craterocephalus capreoli) is a brackish-water fish of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The north-west hardyhead is a small silverside from fresh and brackish water of northwestern Australia. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a slender, 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, insects and algae. 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 North-west hardyhead?
The North-west hardyhead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Silvery body with a lateral stripe; estuarine schooling fish
Where does the North-west hardyhead live?
The North-west hardyhead lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwestern Australia
How big does the North-west hardyhead get?
The North-west hardyhead grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the North-west hardyhead dangerous to humans?
No, the North-west hardyhead 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 North-west hardyhead edible?
The North-west hardyhead is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Craterocephalus
More from the family Atherinidae
Want the complete picture on the North-west hardyhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the North-west hardyhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.