Setipinna melanochir (Bleeker, 1849)
Dusky-hairfin anchovy
photo by WWF-Canon / Vidthayanon, C.

Family:  Engraulidae (Anchovies), subfamily: Coiliinae
Max. size:  33 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  pelagic-neritic; freshwater; brackish; marine
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific: Thailand south to Java, including rivers, e.g., the Chao Praya in Thailand and the Rokan, Kapuas and Barito in Indonesia and the Mekong River system.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 45-53. Belly with 21 to 26 + 8 to 10 = 30 to 35 keeled scutes from isthmus to anus. Lower gill rakers with serrae rather large, spiky, but not distinctly clumped. Pectoral filament short or even absent, never reaching even to anus. Gill cover and main part of pectoral fin often dusky or jet black; other fins pale to bright yellow (Ref. 189). Origin of anal fin in front of origin of the dorsal fin (Ref. 43281).
Biology:  This species was recorded up rivers at 90, 150 and 210 km from the sea, but it is not known if these are permanent freshwater populations or migrants from the sea. At least small numbers enter artisanal river and lake fisheries (Ref. 9822). Found in large rivers far upstream from the estuary (Ref. 12693). Feeds mainly on insect larvae and small fishes. Used to make prahoc (Ref. 12693).
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 12 February 2018 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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