Commerson's Anchovy and Similar Species
Stolephorus commersonnii
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Commerson's Anchovy. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Indian Anchovy
Stolephorus indicus
Key differences: S. indicus generally has a longer maxilla, extending beyond the preoperculum to or nearly to the gill opening. It also tends to be a larger species, reaching up to 15 cm SL, compared to S. commersonnii's typical maximum of 10 cm SL. The silvery stripe on S. indicus is often less distinct or absent in larger individuals.
Devis' Anchovy
Stolephorus devisi
Key differences: S. devisi has a shorter maxilla, usually not reaching the posterior margin of the preoperculum. It also typically has fewer anal fin rays (14-16) compared to S. commersonnii (17-20).
Mandeli Anchovy
Stolephorus tri
Key differences: S. tri has a shorter maxilla, similar to S. devisi, and often has a more robust body. The number of anal fin rays can overlap, but careful examination of maxilla length is crucial.
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