Blacktip Silverbiddy

Gerres oyena

The Blacktip Silverbiddy is a reef-associated fish found in marine and brackish waters along the coasts of the Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean. It is characterized by its silvery body with 6-8 faint dusky bands, which are more visible in young or stressed specimens. The dorsal fin has a dusky patch and narrow dusky margins, while the pelvic fins are semi-transparent or dull yellow. The caudal fin is deeply forked with long lobes, and the body is fusiform and compressed in shape. This species inhabits estuaries, coastal waters, lagoons, and sandy bottoms near reefs, typically at depths ranging from 0 to 20 meters. The Blacktip Silverbiddy feeds on small organisms found on sandy substrates, often occurring singly or in groups. Reproduction occurs with ovary development in females from March to September and testes development in males from March to August, with peak development in April and May. The species is important to local fisheries and is sold fresh in markets. It is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.