The Perth herring (Nematalosa vlaminghi) is a brackish-water fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Description
The Perth herring is a gizzard shad (Dorosomatidae) from coastal, estuarine and lower river water of western Australia. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, bright-silvery body with a keeled belly, a blunt head and a muscular gizzard-like stomach in which it grinds food. As a social schooling fish it filters detritus, algae and small plankton from the water. It is locally a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Perth herring?
The Perth herring has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Perth herring live?
The Perth herring lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Perth herring get?
The Perth herring grows to a maximum of about 36 cm.
Is the Perth herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Perth herring is harmless to humans.
Is the Perth herring edible?
The Perth herring is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nematalosa
More from the family Clupeidae
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