Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese sardinella (Sardinella zunasi) is a saltwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Northwest Pacific (Japan, Korea and China), in shallow coastal water, bays and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The Japanese sardinella is a small, strongly silvery herring-like fish of the family Dorosomatidae reaching about 18 cm. The laterally compressed body has a blue-green back, a silver flank and often a dark spot behind the gill. The species forms large schools in shallow coastal water, bays and estuaries of the northwest Pacific and tolerates brackish water. With fine gill rakers it filters animal and plant plankton from the water. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger predators and seabirds and a familiar food and bait fish in East Asia, where it is eaten fresh, dried and processed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese sardinella?
The Japanese sardinella has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, strongly silver-shining herring-like fish with a blue-green back and a dark blotch behind the gill.
Where does the Japanese sardinella live?
The Japanese sardinella lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Northwest Pacific (Japan, Korea and China), in shallow coastal water, bays and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Japanese sardinella get?
The Japanese sardinella grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Japanese sardinella dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese sardinella is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Japanese sardinella edible?
Yes, the Japanese sardinella is commonly eaten.
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Same genus Sardinella
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese sardinella?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese sardinella is one of 12,519 species in the app.