Topsmelt Silverside
Atherinops affinis
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: to 26 m
- Max size: 37 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: LC
A silverside of bays, kelp beds and estuaries, the topsmelt gathers in large schools near the surface. Adults feed on drifting plankton while the young pick at algae and the larvae of kelp flies. It glues its eggs to seaweed.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Atheriniformes › Atherinopsidae › Atherinops
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 279812.
FAQ
- How deep does the Topsmelt Silverside live?
- The Topsmelt Silverside (Atherinops affinis) is typically found at to 26 m.
- Is the Topsmelt Silverside dangerous to divers?
- The Topsmelt Silverside is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Topsmelt Silverside get?
- The Topsmelt Silverside grows to about 37 cm.