Atherinosoma microstoma (Günther, 1861)
Smallmouth hardyhead

Family:  Atherinidae (Silversides), subfamily: Atherininae
Max. size:  10.7 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  pelagic-neritic; freshwater; brackish; marine; depth range 0 - 8 m, anadromous
Distribution:  Southwest Pacific: endemic to Australia.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Found in shallow coastal bays, estuaries and lakes ranging from pure fresh to salinities in excess of seawater (Ref. 9002). Occurs abundantly in in estuaries around eel-grass thickets, occasionally penetrating the lower freshwater reaches of rivers. Feeds on tiny crustaceans and insects. Breeds in spring (September to October). An annual species (living for only one year), dying shortly after spawning (Ref. 44894).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


Source and more info: www.fishbase.org. For personal, classroom, and other internal use only. Not for publication.