Fin's Fish Guide
The Ovalau silverside (Hypoatherina ovalaua) is a saltwater fish of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Fiji, Guam, Indonesia, New Caledonia, North. Marianas and others
Description
The Ovalau silverside is a silverside (Atherinidae) from coastal, estuarine and fresh water around Australia and the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, translucent silvery body with a shiny lengthwise stripe along the flank and two separate dorsal fins. As a social schooling fish it swims in open water and snaps at small plankton, mosquito larvae and small crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ovalau silverside?
The Ovalau silverside has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Ovalau silverside live?
The Ovalau silverside lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Oceania: American Samoa, Fiji, Guam, Indonesia, New Caledonia, North. Marianas and others
How big does the Ovalau silverside get?
The Ovalau silverside grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Ovalau silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Ovalau 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hypoatherina
More from the family Atherinidae
Want the complete picture on the Ovalau silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ovalau silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.