Fin's Fish Guide
The Castelnau's herring (Herklotsichthys castelnaui) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Castelnau's herring is a small herring-like fish (Clupeidae) from the coastal waters of Australia. The species has a slender, laterally compressed, silvery body with a shiny flank. It forms large schools in estuarine and coastal waters; adults make a spawning migration from the coast. With its fine gill rakers it filters small zooplankton from the water. It is an important prey fish for larger fishes and birds and is used as bait. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Castelnau's herring?
The Castelnau's herring has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Schooling coastal herring; important prey fish and used as bait.
Where does the Castelnau's herring live?
The Castelnau's herring lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Coastal waters of Australia; estuarine and coastal waters.
How big does the Castelnau's herring get?
The Castelnau's herring grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 14 cm.
Is the Castelnau's herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Castelnau's herring is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Castelnau's herring edible?
The Castelnau's herring is rarely eaten.
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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 Castelnau's herring?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Castelnau's herring is one of 12,519 species in the app.