Fin's Fish Guide
The New Zealand sprat (Sprattus muelleri) is a saltwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The New Zealand sprat is a small herring relative (Clupeidae) from coastal waters of the waters around New Zealand. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, streamlined, bright-silvery body with a bluish back and large, easily shed scales. As a social schooling fish it forms shimmering swarms in open water and filters zooplankton with its gill rakers. It is important food for larger fish and seabirds. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the New Zealand sprat?
The New Zealand sprat has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the New Zealand sprat live?
The New Zealand sprat lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Oceania: New Zealand
How big does the New Zealand sprat get?
The New Zealand sprat grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the New Zealand sprat dangerous to humans?
No, the New Zealand sprat 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 New Zealand sprat edible?
The New Zealand sprat is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the New Zealand sprat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the New Zealand sprat is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sprattus
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the New Zealand sprat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the New Zealand sprat is one of 12,519 species in the app.