Southern Sand Smelt
NameSouthern Sand Smelt
Scientific NameAtherina boyeri
Common NamesSouthern Sand Smelt, Boyer's Sand Smelt, Big-scale Sand Smelt, Mediterranean Sand Smelt
FamilyAtherinidae
OriginMediterranean Sea, Black Sea, Atlantic Ocean (eastern)
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)8
Water TypeBrackish
Temperature Range (°F)60-78
pH Range7.5-8.5
Compatible SpeciesOther peaceful silversides, Brackish water gobies, Mollies (in brackish setups), Small blennies
Description
The Southern Sand Smelt (*Atherina boyeri*) is a slender, silvery schooling fish found in coastal and estuarine waters. Known for its euryhaline nature, it can adapt to a wide range of salinities from brackish to full marine environments. These active carnivores feed on small invertebrates and zooplankton.
