Spirinchus starksi (Fisk, 1913) Night smelt |
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photo by
Fritzsche, R.A./J.W. Cavanagh |
Family: | Osmeridae (Smelts) | |||
Max. size: | 23 cm TL (male/unsexed); max. reported age: 3 years | |||
Environment: | benthopelagic; marine; depth range - 128 m | |||
Distribution: | Northeast Pacific: southeastern Alaska to Point Arguello in central California, USA. | |||
Diagnosis: | Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8-10; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 15-19; Vertebrae: 60-64. In males, pectoral fins longer; tuberculate on head, scales, and lower fins (Ref. 6885). Green with silvery sides (Ref. 6885). | |||
Biology: | Feeds on small shrimp-like crustaceans (Ref. 4563). Caught during the spawning season (Ref. 2850). | |||
IUCN Red List Status: | Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435) | |||
Threat to humans: | harmless |