The Big-scale Sand Smelt, scientifically known as Atherina boyeri, is a small, slender fish species belonging to the family Atherinidae. This species is characterized by its silvery-grey body and a distinctive black spot at the base of the dorsal fin.
Description & Characteristics
Atherina boyeri can reach a maximum size of 20.0 cm in length. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a slightly pointed head and a small mouth. The scales are large and cycloid, giving the fish its common name. The dorsal fin is positioned towards the rear of the body, followed by a small, adipose fin. The anal fin is long and extends almost to the caudal fin, which is forked.
Habitat and Occurrence
Atherina boyeri is found in coastal waters and estuaries throughout the Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea, and the eastern Atlantic Ocean. This species prefers shallow, sandy or muddy bottoms with abundant vegetation. It can be found in a range of marine zones, from the intertidal zone to depths of around 100 meters.
Taxonomy
Atherina boyeri belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Atheriniformes, and Family: Atherinidae. The Atheriniformes order encompasses a diverse group of fishes, commonly known as silversides. The family Atherinidae comprises around 150 species, many of which are found in coastal waters worldwide.
Feeding
Atherina boyeri is a predatory fish with a varied diet. It feeds primarily on zooplankton, including copepods, krill, and mysis. Other food items include amphipods, clams, fish larvae, insects, invertebrates, snails, worms, and detritus. Atherina boyeri plays a crucial role in the marine food web, regulating populations of its prey and serving as a food source for larger fish.
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