Atherinomorus insularum
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Atheriniformes
Family: Atherinidae
Genus: Atherinomorus
Species:
A. insularum
Binomial name
Atherinomorus insularum
(Jordan & Evermann, 1903)

Atherinomorus insularum also called Hawaiian silverside or 'iao in Hawaiian is a species of fish in the family Atherinidae endemic to Hawaii.[1][2]

Description and biology

The Hawaiian silverside has two dorsal fins and a prominent lateral stripe, which sets them apart from other baitfish.[1] They can grow up to three and a half inches. They are greenish gray on the back and have a silvery stripe topped by a blue-green line running the length of the body.[1] They disperse to feed on plankton at the surface at night.[3]

Distribution and habitat

Atherinomorus insularum are endemic to Hawaii. They are a common schooling fish often found near the surface in tidepools and coastal waters.[1]

Human use and cultural significance

In ancient Hawaii, these fish were sometimes used to rub the face of a human sacrificial victim to make it shine like the eyes of a maneater shark.[3]

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 "Hawaiian Silverside, Atherinomorus insularum". www.keokistender.com. Retrieved 2023-08-13.
  2. ↑ "WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species - Atherinomorus insularum (Jordan & Evermann, 1903)". www.marinespecies.org. Retrieved 2021-05-15.
  3. 1 2 Hoover (2008). The ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Reef Fishes. Mutual Publishing. ISBN 978-1-56647-887-8.


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