The Australian freshwater herring (Potamalosa richmondia) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Description
The Australian freshwater herring is a herring relative (Clupeidae) from coastal rivers of eastern Australia. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, bright-silvery body with a keeled belly and large, easily shed scales. As a social schooling fish it moves between fresh and brackish water and filters zooplankton and small insects from the water. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian freshwater herring?
The Australian freshwater herring has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Australian freshwater herring live?
The Australian freshwater herring lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Australian freshwater herring get?
The Australian freshwater herring grows to a maximum of about 32 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Australian freshwater herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Australian freshwater herring is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Australian freshwater herring edible?
The Australian freshwater herring is rarely eaten.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Clupeidae

Want the complete picture on the Australian freshwater herring?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian freshwater herring is one of 12,519 species in the app.