Fin's Fish Guide
The Falkland herring (Sprattus fuegensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Cold coastal waters around the southern tip of South America and the Falkland Islands.
Description
The Fuegian sprat is a small herring-like fish (Clupeidae) from the cold coastal waters around the southern tip of South America and the Falkland Islands. The species has a slender, silvery body and lives in large schools in coastal waters. As a filter feeder it sifts small zooplankton from the water. It forms an important link in the food chain and is a staple food for hake, seabirds and seals in Patagonian and Falkland waters. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Falkland herring?
The Falkland herring has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Filter-feeding cold-water schooling fish; important prey for hake, seabirds and seals.
Where does the Falkland herring live?
The Falkland herring lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Cold coastal waters around the southern tip of South America and the Falkland Islands.
How big does the Falkland herring get?
The Falkland herring grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Falkland herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Falkland herring is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Falkland herring edible?
Yes, the Falkland herring is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sprattus
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Falkland herring?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Falkland herring is one of 12,519 species in the app.