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Bay Anchovy

Anchoa mitchilli
Managed by: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Regions
Florida
Protected status
None
Also known as
—

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Size
Up to 4 inches
Similar species
Striped anchovy, A. hepsetus (anal fin begins below middle of dorsal fin) Size: Up to 4 inches
Appearance
  • Snout very short, only slightly overhanging mouth
  • Anal fin begins below beginning of dorsal fin
  • Body relatively deep when compared to striped anchovy
  • Silver stripe on body, often faint or absent toward front
  • Stripe fades after death
Habitat
Shallow bays and estuaries. Common in brackish waters.
Behavior
Form dense schools and tolerate a wide range of salinities.
Additional information
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Sources
Image credit: © Diane Rome Peebles