Fin's Fish Guide
The Longtail shad (Tenualosa macrura) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 52 cm.
Description
The longtail shad is a large herring relative (Clupeidae) from coastal and estuarine water and lower river reaches of Sundaland in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, bright-silvery body with a keeled belly and a strongly extended upper tail-fin lobe. As a social schooling fish it migrates between sea and fresh water and filters zooplankton from the water. It is a highly valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longtail shad?
The Longtail shad has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Longtail shad live?
The Longtail shad lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Brunei Darsm, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand
How big does the Longtail shad get?
The Longtail shad grows to a maximum of about 52 cm.
Is the Longtail shad dangerous to humans?
No, the Longtail shad 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 Longtail shad edible?
Yes, the Longtail shad is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tenualosa
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Longtail shad?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longtail shad is one of 12,519 species in the app.