Fin's Fish Guide
The Rough silverside (Membras martinica) is a saltwater fish of the family Atherinopsidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Western Atlantic; coastal waters, bays and inlets of eastern North America.
Description
The rough silverside is a small schooling fish of the silverside family (Atherinopsidae) from the western Atlantic off the east coast of North America. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a slender, translucent, silvery body with a bright silver lateral stripe; the scales feel somewhat rough, to which the name refers. It occurs along shore and in bays and inlets, where it swims in schools. As an omnivore it feeds on zooplankton and small invertebrates. As an abundant prey fish it is important to larger predatory fishes and seabirds. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rough silverside?
The Rough silverside has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Silvery longitudinal stripe and somewhat rough-feeling scales; abundant coastal schooling fish.
Where does the Rough silverside live?
The Rough silverside lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic; coastal waters, bays and inlets of eastern North America.
How big does the Rough silverside get?
The Rough silverside grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Rough silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Rough silverside is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rough silverside edible?
The Rough silverside is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Membras
More from the family Atherinopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Rough silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rough silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.