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Atherina presbyter and Atherina boyeri
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Atherina presbyter and Atherina boyeri
Atherina presbyter, also known as Silverside, Smelt and Sand Smelt, and the larger Atherina boyeri, also known as Big-Scale Sand Smelt and Boiers Atherine. Date: 1864
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Media ID 14229282
© The Sharp Illustration Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1865 Clupeidae Fishes Skipper Species Sprat Whitebait 1860s Sprats
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, dated 1864, presents two intriguing and elusive species of the Atherinidae family, Atherina presbyter, also known as the Silverside, Smelt, or Sand Smelt, and its larger counterpart, Atherina boyeri, commonly referred to as the Big-Scale Sand Smelt or Boiers Atherine. These small, silver fish are native to the European and North African coasts of the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas. The Victorian-era image showcases these delicate creatures in their natural habitat, likely taken from a shallow, sandy seabed. Atherina presbyter, the smaller fish, measures around 12 centimeters in length, while Atherina boyeri can grow up to 18 centimeters. Both species are characterized by their slender bodies, silver scales, and dorsal and anal fins that extend beyond their caudal fin. During the 1860s, naturalists and marine enthusiasts were fascinated by the diverse array of marine life, and collecting specimens for study and display was a popular pastime. This photograph serves as a testament to the curiosity and appreciation for the natural world during this era. Atherina presbyter and Atherina boyeri are part of the Clupeidae family, which also includes other well-known species like Sprat (Sprattus sprattus), Brisling (Sprattus bipunctatus), and Whitebait (Clupea harengus). These fish play essential roles in their respective ecosystems as forage fish, contributing to the food chains of larger predators. This evocative image invites us to reflect on the rich marine biodiversity that has captivated generations and continues to inspire awe and wonder.
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