Fin's Fish Guide
The Australian sprat (Sprattus novaehollandiae) is a brackish-water fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The Australian sprat is a herring (Clupeidae) from cool coastal and open water of southern Australia. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, bright-silvery body with a keeled belly. As a social schooling fish it swims in large schools in open water and filters plankton and small crustaceans. It is an important link in the food web and a bait and food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian sprat?
The Australian sprat has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Australian sprat live?
The Australian sprat lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
How big does the Australian sprat get?
The Australian sprat grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Australian sprat dangerous to humans?
No, the Australian sprat 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 sprat edible?
Yes, the Australian sprat is commonly eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Australian sprat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian sprat is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sprattus
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Australian sprat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian sprat is one of 12,519 species in the app.