SPECIES ID / Freshwater Fish of the Fraser Valley

Smelt Family (Osmeridae)

  • Most species live most of their lives at sea but spawn in freshwater
  • Typically < 20 cm in length and occur in large schools
  • Two species are found in freshwater in BC

Identification Tips:

  • Elongated slender body form
  • Adipose fin present

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Primary Information Source:
McPhail, J.D. 2007. The Freshwater Fishes of British Columbia. University of Alberta Press. Edmonton, Alberta.