. Common marine fishes of California. Fishes -- California; Fishes. COMMON MARINE FISHES 41. Figure l-l WHITEBAIT Members of Family Osmeridae Relationship: Several members of the true smelt family, Osmeridae, are found in California. All of them are called "whitebait" when they are small (as are the young of some other fishes) but two species comprise the bulk of the catch. These are Spirinchus starksi and AUosmerus attenuatus (illustrated above). The smelts are unusually difficult to distinguish as separate species. Another true smelt, the surf smelt, is shown on page 42. Distinguis
. Common marine fishes of California. Fishes -- California; Fishes. COMMON MARINE FISHES 41. Figure l-l WHITEBAIT Members of Family Osmeridae Relationship: Several members of the true smelt family, Osmeridae, are found in California. All of them are called "whitebait" when they are small (as are the young of some other fishes) but two species comprise the bulk of the catch. These are Spirinchus starksi and AUosmerus attenuatus (illustrated above). The smelts are unusually difficult to distinguish as separate species. Another true smelt, the surf smelt, is shown on page 42. Distinguishing Characters: The small adipose fin; the single dorsal fin com- posed of soft rays; the absence of a scaly appendage above the base of the ventral fin. AUosmerus has a few canine-like teeth on the vomer and 15 to 17 anal rays. Spirinchus has a number of smaller, evenly uniserial teeth which are not canine-like on the vomer, and pectoral fins which are shorter than the head. Both have rather large mouths, the maxillary reaching at least to the back edge of the pupil. Length to about 9 inches. Color: Pale greenish, almost colorless, a silvery stripe along the side. Distribution: Varies with the species. Spirinchus is found from Monterey Bay north into Washington and AUosmerus from San Francisco Bay to the Straits of Juan de Fuca. Fishing Season: Throughout the year with maximum landings in the spring and summer. Importance: The total "whitebait" catch is of minor significance. Spirinchus is the most important constituent though AUosmerus also enters the catch in considerable quantity. Small amounts of young fish of other species comprise the balance. Landed chiefly in the Eureka region and sold entirely in the fresh fish markets. Used to some extent as bait by commercial and sport fishermen. Fishing Gear: Taken in the surf both commercially and by sportsmen with dip nets or small hand seines. Unauthorized Names: Smelt, surf smelt, frittura, small fry, Please
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