Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic thread herring (Opisthonema oglinum) is a saltwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, pelagic in coastal water above the continental shelf.
Description
The Atlantic thread herring is a silvery herring of the family Dorosomatidae (formerly Clupeidae) reaching about 38 cm. The laterally compressed body has a blue-green back, often a dark shoulder spot and, characteristically, a greatly elongated last dorsal-fin ray that trails backward like a thin thread - hence the name. With fine gill rakers the fish sifts plant and animal plankton from the water. The species forms large, fast schools that live pelagically in coastal water along the western Atlantic coast from the USA to Brazil. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger predators and seabirds and is much used as bait.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic thread herring?
The Atlantic thread herring has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Silvery herring with a greatly elongated last dorsal fin ray (a 'thread') and often a dark shoulder blotch; a filter-feeding schooling fish. Caution: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Atlantic thread herring live?
The Atlantic thread herring lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, pelagic in coastal water above the continental shelf.
How big does the Atlantic thread herring get?
The Atlantic thread herring grows to a maximum of about 38 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Atlantic thread herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic thread herring is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic thread herring edible?
Yes, the Atlantic thread herring is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Opisthonema
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic thread herring?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic thread herring is one of 12,519 species in the app.