Fin's Fish Guide
The Samoan hardyhead (Hypoatherina temminckii) is a saltwater fish of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The Samoan silverside is a small, slender fish of the family Atherinidae (silversides) from the Indo-Pacific. The species has a translucent, silvery body with a shining silver lateral band and reaches about 12 cm. It lives in schools in coastal waters and harbours and feeds on zooplankton. The fish is an important link in the food web as prey for larger commercial fishes and is widely used as live bait in the tuna fishery. Locally the species is also eaten by people.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Samoan hardyhead?
The Samoan hardyhead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Glossy silvery longitudinal band; schooling fish; important as bait fish and prey.
Where does the Samoan hardyhead live?
The Samoan hardyhead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to the western and central Pacific.
How big does the Samoan hardyhead get?
The Samoan hardyhead grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Samoan hardyhead dangerous to humans?
No, the Samoan hardyhead is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Samoan hardyhead edible?
Yes, the Samoan hardyhead is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Samoan hardyhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Samoan hardyhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.