Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinese herring (Ilisha elongata) is a brackish-water fish of the family Pristigasteridae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The elongate ilisha is a herring-like fish of the family Pristigasteridae from the Indo-West Pacific, in particular the coastal waters of East Asia. The species reaches about 60 cm and has an elongate, strongly compressed, silvery body with a sharp, keeled belly edge. It is a warm-water species living inshore, entering estuaries and tolerating lowered salinities; in cool years it does not reach the northern part of its range. The diet consists of small fishes, crustaceans and zooplankton. The species is a highly valued food fish and is also used in Chinese medicine.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese herring?
The Chinese herring has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sharp, keeled belly edge; highly valued food fish in East Asia.
Where does the Chinese herring live?
The Chinese herring lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific, in the coastal waters of East Asia.
How big does the Chinese herring get?
The Chinese herring grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Chinese herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese herring is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chinese herring edible?
Yes, the Chinese herring is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Ilisha
More from the family Pristigasteridae
Want the complete picture on the Chinese herring?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese herring is one of 12,519 species in the app.