Pacific Rainbow Smelt

Osmerus dentex

Pacific Rainbow Smelt

A schooling smelt of cold northern coasts, it moves between brackish estuaries, lagoons and the lower reaches of rivers. In spring it leaves the sea or lake to spawn in fresh water, running upstream in dense shoals before returning to the coast.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Osmeriformes › Osmeridae › Osmerus

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 254557.

FAQ

How deep does the Pacific Rainbow Smelt live?
The Pacific Rainbow Smelt (Osmerus dentex) is typically found at 0–290 m.
Is the Pacific Rainbow Smelt dangerous to divers?
The Pacific Rainbow Smelt is harmless to divers.
How big does the Pacific Rainbow Smelt get?
The Pacific Rainbow Smelt grows to about 34 cm.