Fin's Fish Guide
The Gizzard shad (Nematalosa come) is a saltwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The western gizzard shad is a herring relative (Dorosomatidae) from the western Pacific. The species has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body with an inferior mouth and a muscular gizzard with which it grinds plant and organic material. It lives in schools in coastal waters and estuaries and tolerates brackish water. It feeds on phytoplankton, detritus and organic mud. It is a local food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gizzard shad?
The Gizzard shad has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Muscular stomach (gizzard) for grinding plant material; schooling coastal and estuarine herring.
Where does the Gizzard shad live?
The Gizzard shad lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Western Pacific; coastal waters and estuaries.
How big does the Gizzard shad get?
The Gizzard shad grows to a maximum of about 21 cm. On average the species is around 17 cm.
Is the Gizzard shad dangerous to humans?
No, the Gizzard shad is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Gizzard shad edible?
Yes, the Gizzard shad is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Gizzard shad?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gizzard shad is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nematalosa
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Gizzard shad?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gizzard shad is one of 12,519 species in the app.