The Tropical silverside (Atherinomorus duodecimalis) is a fish of the family Atherinidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The tropical silverside is a silverside (Atherinidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species is small and has a slender, translucent body with a shiny silver lengthwise band on the flank and relatively large eyes. It lives in large, dense schools in clear, shallow coastal waters, lagoons and over reefs. With its fine gill rakers it captures small zooplankton from the water column. It is an important prey fish for larger predators and seabirds. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tropical silverside?
The Tropical silverside is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Glossy silvery flank band; forms large shoals as a prey fish in shallow coastal waters.
Where does the Tropical silverside live?
The Tropical silverside is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific; shallow coastal waters and lagoons.
How big does the Tropical silverside get?
The Tropical silverside grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Tropical silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Tropical silverside is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Tropical silverside edible?
The Tropical silverside is rarely eaten.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Atherinomorus
More from the family Atherinidae

Want the complete picture on the Tropical silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tropical silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.