How to Identify Atlantic Silverside

To identify Atlantic Silverside (Menidia menidia), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Translucent, pale green to yellowish-green dorsally, with a distinct, broad, silvery lateral stripe extending from the operculum to the caudal fin base. The ventral side is silvery-white. Fins are typically clear.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two widely separated dorsal fins, the first with weak spines and the second with a spine and soft rays., A prominent, iridescent silvery lateral stripe., Large eyes., Small, terminal mouth., Absence of a lateral line.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is small with 3-7 weak spines, the second is larger with 1 spine and 8-12 soft rays.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Small, high-set pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for a slender, elongated, translucent body with a prominent, iridescent silvery stripe along the sides. The back is typically pale green to yellowish-green.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two distinctly separate dorsal fins. The first is small and spiny, while the second is larger with a spine and soft rays.

3. 3

   Mouth Position

   Observe the small, terminal mouth, which is characteristic of a surface or mid-water feeder.

4. 4

   Absence of Lateral Line

   Unlike many other fish, the Atlantic Silverside lacks a visible lateral line, which can be a key differentiating feature.

Explore Atlantic Silverside