Fin's Fish Guide
The New Zealand sprat (Sprattus antipodum) is a saltwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The New Zealand sprat is a herring relative (Clupeidae) from coastal waters around New Zealand. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, bright-silvery body with a blue-green back and a keeled belly. As an open-water schooling fish it swims in dense groups near the coast and filters small zooplankton. It forms an important link in the food chain. 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 12 cm. On average the species is around 9 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.
More photos
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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.