Atherinomorus insularum also called Hawaiian silverside or 'iao in Hawaiian is a species of fish in the family Atherinidae endemic to Hawaii.[1][2]
| Atherinomorus insularum | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification 
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| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Atheriniformes |
| Family: | Atherinidae |
| Genus: | Atherinomorus |
| Species: | A. insularum
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| Binomial name | |
| Atherinomorus insularum (Jordan & Evermann, 1903)
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Description and biology edit
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 edit
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 edit
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 edit
- ^ a b c d "Hawaiian Silverside, Atherinomorus insularum". www.keokistender.com. Retrieved 2023-08-13.
- ^ "WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species - Atherinomorus insularum (Jordan & Evermann, 1903)". www.marinespecies.org. Retrieved 2021-05-15.
- ^ a b Hoover (2008). The ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Reef Fishes. Mutual Publishing. ISBN 978-1-56647-887-8.
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