Jack Silverside
NameJack Silverside
Scientific NameAtherinopsis californiensis
Common NamesJack Silverside, Jacksmelt, California Jacksmelt
FamilyAtherinopsidae
OriginEastern Pacific Ocean, North America, California Coast
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)22
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)55-70
pH Range8.0-8.4
Compatible SpeciesOther large temperate marine fish, Larger temperate wrasses, Large rockfish species
Description
The Jack Silverside, or Jacksmelt, is a slender, silvery marine fish characterized by a prominent lateral stripe and a yellowish patch behind the operculum. Native to the Eastern Pacific, they are schooling predators that feed on small invertebrates and fish. Due to their large size and specific requirements, they are not commonly kept in home aquariums.
