Fin's Fish Guide
The Stokell's smelt (Stokellia anisodon) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Retropinnidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
Stokell's smelt is a small smelt (Retropinnidae) endemic to coastal waters and river mouths of the eastern South Island of New Zealand. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, translucent, silvery body with an adipose fin and a characteristic cucumber-like smell. As a schooling fish it swims in estuaries and the surf and filters small zooplankton; it runs in schools into river mouths to spawn. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Stokell's smelt?
The Stokell's smelt has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Stokell's smelt live?
The Stokell's smelt lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Oceania: New Zealand
How big does the Stokell's smelt get?
The Stokell's smelt grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Stokell's smelt dangerous to humans?
No, the Stokell's smelt 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
More from the family Retropinnidae
Want the complete picture on the Stokell's smelt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Stokell's smelt is one of 12,519 species in the app.