How to Identify Big-scale Sand Smelt

To identify Big-scale Sand Smelt (Atherina boyeri), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal side greenish-grey to olive, flanks silvery with a distinct, broad, iridescent silvery stripe running from the operculum to the caudal fin base. Ventral side whitish. Fins are generally translucent.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Large eyes relative to head size, Two widely separated dorsal fins, Prominent silvery lateral stripe, Relatively large scales for a smelt

Dorsal fin

First dorsal fin with 6-10 flexible spines; second dorsal fin with 1 spine and 8-16 soft rays. The two dorsal fins are distinctly separated.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short, located high on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located behind the pectoral fins, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays. Anal fin with 1 spine and 10-19 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Size

   Slender, elongated body, typically reaching 8-15 cm (3-6 inches) in length, though some populations can grow up to 20 cm (8 inches).

2. 2

   Lateral Stripe

   Look for the very distinct, broad, iridescent silvery stripe along the flanks, which is a key identifying feature.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two widely separated dorsal fins. The first is spiny, and the second is soft-rayed.

4. 4

   Mouth Position

   The mouth is superior (upturned), indicating its feeding habit on surface or mid-water prey.

5. 5

   Scales

   The scales are relatively large for a smelt, which helps distinguish it from some other atherinids.

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