Biology:Atherinomorus insularum
| Atherinomorus insularum | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific 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
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 "Hawaiian Silverside, Atherinomorus insularum". https://www.keokistender.com/fishes/mullets/atherinomorus-insularum.htm.
- ↑ "WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species - Atherinomorus insularum (Jordan & Evermann, 1903)". http://www.marinespecies.org/aphia.php?p=taxdetails&id=272035.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Hoover (2008). The ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Reef Fishes. Mutual Publishing. ISBN 978-1-56647-887-8.
Wikidata ☰ Q2983651 entry
 |  |
