User:Polusushi/Atherinomorus insularum

Lead Section
·        Common name: Hawaiian Silverside

·        Hawaiian name: ‘iao

·        Scientific name: Atherinomorus insularum

Anatomy and morphology (for animals) or Description (for limu)
Atherinomorus insularum or ‘Iao is formerly known as Pranesus insularum. [3 ] Their physical appearance is greenish gray on the back with a silvery stripe topped by a blue-green line running the length of the body. As part of the family of silversides, they are also recognized by their two dorsal fins, the first arising at the center of the back and the second almost directly over the anal fins. In terms of size, they are approximately about 3 1/2 inches in size. One significant feature they have is the ability to disperse at night to feed on plankton at the surface. [2 ]

Distribution
This species is abundant in coral reef fishes in the Main and Northwestern Hawaiian Islands by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. [5 ]

Habitat
The Atherinomorus insularum resides in large tide pools, brackish pools, on shallow protected reef flats, and off rocky shorelines. [2 ]

Taxonomy
This species is categorized as part of the family of Fish. [4 ]

Cultural Importance
In ancient Hawai’i, these fish were said to be phosphorescent which means they were used a sacrificial to humans. As a result, they were recognized as the eyes of the maneater shark of the deep. [2 ]

Conservation status
The current conservation status of Atherinomorus insularum is endemic to Hawaii. Due to their small size, they are not usually consumed by humans but used mostly as bait and pet food. [1 ]