Fin's Fish Guide
The Freshwater sardinella (Sardinella tawilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The tawilis is a herring relative (Dorosomatidae) found only in Taal Lake in the Philippines, the only sardine fully adapted to fresh water. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a thin golden flank band. As an open-water schooling fish it swims in large groups and filters animal and plant plankton. Through overfishing the species is endangered. It is an important local food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freshwater sardinella?
The Freshwater sardinella has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Freshwater sardinella live?
The Freshwater sardinella lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Philippines
How big does the Freshwater sardinella get?
The Freshwater sardinella grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Freshwater sardinella dangerous to humans?
No, the Freshwater sardinella is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Freshwater sardinella edible?
The Freshwater sardinella is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sardinella
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Freshwater sardinella?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freshwater sardinella is one of 12,519 species in the app.