Common Smelt
Long and slender in body shape with shimmering silver scales with a light purplish sheen the Common smelt has a small head with large eyes and mouth. Lake fish reach 9-10cm in length.
- Scientific Name
- Retropinna retropinna
- Habitat
- Distributed through New Zealand, although only coming into freshwater as adults to breed, the Common smelt inhabits rivers but only far inland if the gradient is low
- Tank Age/Maturity
- Minimum recommended tank size footprint of 120cm x 60cm.
- Threatened Species
- N/A
- Marine Stage
- Yes - can landlock