Fin's Fish Guide
The Broad shad (Diapterus auratus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gerreidae that grows up to 43 cm.
Western Atlantic; mangrove creeks, lagoons and vegetated sandy bottoms.
Description
The Irish pompano is a mojarra (Gerreidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a deep, silvery, laterally compressed body with a highly protrusible mouth that it can extend downward as a tube to sift food from the bottom. It inhabits shallow coastal waters, especially mangrove creeks and lagoons, but also vegetated sand bottoms in the sea. Juveniles are more widespread than adults. It feeds on bottom-dwelling invertebrates. The species is valued as a food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broad shad?
The Broad shad has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Highly protrusible tube mouth for sifting the bottom; inhabits mangrove creeks and lagoons.
Where does the Broad shad live?
The Broad shad lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; mangrove creeks, lagoons and vegetated sandy bottoms.
How big does the Broad shad get?
The Broad shad grows to a maximum of about 43 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Broad shad dangerous to humans?
No, the Broad shad is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Broad shad edible?
Yes, the Broad shad is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Diapterus
More from the family Gerreidae
Want the complete picture on the Broad shad?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broad shad is one of 12,519 species in the app.