Fin's Fish Guide
The Pacific gizzard shad (Dorosoma smithi) is a freshwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The Pacific gizzard shad is a herring relative (Dorosomatidae) from coastal, brackish and fresh water of the eastern Pacific, off Mexico. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, bright-silvery body with a keeled belly, a small, inferior mouth and a dark shoulder spot. As an open-water schooling fish it filters plankton and organic matter in turbid bays and river mouths. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific gizzard shad?
The Pacific gizzard shad has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Pacific gizzard shad live?
The Pacific gizzard shad lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. North America: Mexico
How big does the Pacific gizzard shad get?
The Pacific gizzard shad grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Pacific gizzard shad dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific gizzard 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 Pacific gizzard shad edible?
The Pacific gizzard shad is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Pacific gizzard shad?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific gizzard shad is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dorosoma
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Pacific gizzard shad?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific gizzard shad is one of 12,519 species in the app.