| Distribution |
Silversides are distributed from tropical to temperate waters. Two widely separated dorsal fins, the first with flexible spines and the second with one spine followed by soft rays; anal fin with one spine followed by soft rays; pectoral fins high on body; mouth small and terminal; no lateral line; broad silvery lateral band (black in preserved specimens); pelvic fins usually abdominal; scales relatively large (usually 31-50 in lateral series, more in Labidesthes); vertebrae 32-60 (fewer in Stenatherina). Reported maximum length 60 cm. Most species are marine. However, there are about 50 species confined to freshwater and others that enter freshwater. Feed on zooplankton. |
Hawaiian Silverside 