How to Identify Australian Smelt

To identify Australian Smelt (Retropinna semoni), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Translucent to pale olive-brown dorsally, silvery on the sides and belly. A distinct silvery lateral band is often present.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Small adipose fin present between the dorsal and caudal fins., Distinctive cucumber-like odor when fresh., Large eyes relative to head size.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 9-12 soft rays, positioned well back on the body, posterior to the pelvic fins.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Small, low-set pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Presence of a small, fleshy adipose fin, characteristic of the family Retropinnidae.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Adipose Fin

   Look for the small, fleshy fin located between the dorsal fin and the caudal fin. This is a key characteristic of the family Retropinnidae.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Slender, elongated body, translucent to pale olive-brown back, and silvery sides with a prominent lateral band.

3. 3

   Size

   Typically small, rarely exceeding 10 cm in total length.

4. 4

   Odor

   When freshly caught, it emits a distinct cucumber-like smell, which is a reliable field identification cue.

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