Fin's Fish Guide
The Dotted gizzard shad (Konosirus punctatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 32 cm.
East Asia (Japan, Korea and China), in coastal water, estuaries and bays; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The dotted gizzard shad is a silvery herring of the family Dorosomatidae reaching about 32 cm. The laterally compressed body has a blue-green back with rows of dark spots and an elongated last dorsal-fin ray; the inferior mouth and muscular gizzard-like stomach suit a filter-feeding lifestyle. The species comes from East Asia and lives in schools in coastal water, estuaries and bays; it tolerates brackish water. With fine gill rakers it filters animal and plant plankton and detritus from the water. In spring it spawns in shallow, sheltered water. In Japan the species, as young fish 'kohada', is a prized seasonal fish in sushi and sashimi.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dotted gizzard shad?
The Dotted gizzard shad has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Silvery herring-like fish with an elongated last dorsal fin ray and rows of dark spots on the back; a filter feeder of coastal waters.
Where does the Dotted gizzard shad live?
The Dotted gizzard shad lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. East Asia (Japan, Korea and China), in coastal water, estuaries and bays; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Dotted gizzard shad get?
The Dotted gizzard shad grows to a maximum of about 32 cm.
Is the Dotted gizzard shad dangerous to humans?
No, the Dotted gizzard shad is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dotted gizzard shad edible?
Yes, the Dotted gizzard shad is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Dotted gizzard shad?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dotted gizzard shad is one of 12,519 species in the app.