Mediterranean Sand Smelt

Atherina hepsetus

Mediterranean Sand Smelt

Schools of this slender, silvery sand smelt drift through Mediterranean shallows, lagoons and estuaries close to shore. They feed on tiny copepods and crustaceans and are netted in numbers as food.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Atheriniformes › Atherinidae › Atherina

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 272028.

FAQ

Is the Mediterranean Sand Smelt dangerous to divers?
The Mediterranean Sand Smelt is harmless to divers.
How big does the Mediterranean Sand Smelt get?
The Mediterranean Sand Smelt grows to about 20 cm.