The Pacific gizzard shad (Dorosoma smithi) is a freshwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The Pacific gizzard shad is a herring relative (Dorosomatidae) from coastal, brackish and fresh water of the eastern Pacific, off Mexico. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, bright-silvery body with a keeled belly, a small, inferior mouth and a dark shoulder spot. As an open-water schooling fish it filters plankton and organic matter in turbid bays and river mouths. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific gizzard shad?
The Pacific gizzard shad has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Pacific gizzard shad live?
The Pacific gizzard shad lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Pacific gizzard shad get?
The Pacific gizzard shad grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Pacific gizzard shad dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific gizzard shad is harmless to humans.
Is the Pacific gizzard shad edible?
The Pacific gizzard shad is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dorosoma
More from the family Clupeidae
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