Fin's Fish Guide
The Blueline herring (Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The bluestripe herring is a herring (Clupeidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species is small and has a slender, silvery body with a bluish back and a few spots behind the gill cover. By day adults form schools near mangroves and in shallow coastal bays and lagoons, while at night they move to deeper water. As a filter feeder it sifts small zooplankton from the water. It is an important prey and bait fish and is fished locally. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blueline herring?
The Blueline herring has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Filter-feeding coastal schooling fish; shoals near mangroves during the day, moves deeper at night. Note: 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 Blueline herring live?
The Blueline herring lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; mangroves, coastal bays and lagoons.
How big does the Blueline herring get?
The Blueline herring grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Blueline herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Blueline herring is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blueline herring edible?
Yes, the Blueline 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 Herklotsichthys
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Blueline herring?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blueline herring is one of 12,519 species in the app.