Pacific Rainbow Smelt
NamePacific Rainbow Smelt
Scientific NameHypomesus pretiosus
Common NamesPacific Rainbow Smelt, Surf Smelt, Pacific Smelt
FamilyOsmeridae
OriginEastern Pacific Ocean, North America (Alaska to California)
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)12
Water TypeBrackish/Marine
Temperature Range (°F)40-60
pH Range7.0-8.5
Compatible SpeciesOther large, coldwater brackish/marine fish (not small enough to be prey)
Description
The Pacific Rainbow Smelt, also known as Surf Smelt, is a slender, silvery fish found in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. These schooling fish inhabit coastal marine waters and estuaries, migrating to spawn. Due to their coldwater, brackish/marine requirements and large size, they are rarely kept in typical home aquariums.
