The Amazon hatchet herring (Pristigaster cayana) is a brackish-water fish of the family Pristigasteridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Amazon hatchet herring is a small freshwater herring from the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a strongly laterally compressed, silvery body with a conspicuously sharp, curved, hatchet-shaped belly edge. It forms schools in rivers and flooded areas and filters small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Amazon hatchet herring?
The Amazon hatchet herring has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Amazon hatchet herring live?
The Amazon hatchet herring lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Amazon hatchet herring get?
The Amazon hatchet herring grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Amazon hatchet herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Amazon hatchet herring is harmless to humans.
Is the Amazon hatchet herring edible?
The Amazon hatchet herring is rarely eaten.
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Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
More from the family Pristigasteridae
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