Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortfinger anchovy (Anchoa lyolepis) is a saltwater fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 12 cm.
North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Brazil, Belize and others
Description
The shortfinger anchovy is a small anchovy (Engraulidae) from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, translucent, silvery body with a shiny silver lateral stripe and a pointed snout above the inferior mouth. It swims in large schools in shallow coastal water and over reefs and filters small zooplankton. It is an important prey and bait fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortfinger anchovy?
The Shortfinger anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body.
Where does the Shortfinger anchovy live?
The Shortfinger anchovy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Brazil, Belize and others
How big does the Shortfinger anchovy get?
The Shortfinger anchovy grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Shortfinger anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortfinger anchovy 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 Shortfinger anchovy edible?
The Shortfinger anchovy is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anchoa
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortfinger anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortfinger anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.