How to Identify Sand Smelt

To identify Sand Smelt (Atherina presbyter), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically greenish-grey to olive, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. A distinct, broad, iridescent silvery stripe runs along the lateral line from the operculum to the caudal fin base. Fins are generally translucent or slightly dusky.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Two widely separated dorsal fins, Large eyes relative to head size, Prominent silvery lateral stripe, Small, cycloid scales

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is short with 6-9 flexible spines, and the second is longer with 1 spine and 11-16 soft rays. The first dorsal fin originates behind the pectoral fin base.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small and positioned high on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small and abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins. Anal fin is long, originating below the first dorsal fin, with 1 spine and 15-19 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the slender, elongated body with a greenish-grey back and a prominent, iridescent silvery stripe along the flanks. The belly is silvery-white.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two distinctly separated dorsal fins. The first is small and spiny, while the second is larger and soft-rayed.

3. 3

   Mouth Position

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

4. 4

   Eye Size

   Relatively large eyes are characteristic of this species.

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