Fin's Fish Guide
The Shad (Pellona flavipinnis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Pristigasteridae that grows up to 73 cm.
Description
The yellowfin river pellona is a herring-like fish of the family Pristigasteridae from northern South America. The species has a deep, strongly laterally compressed, silvery body with a sharp, serrated belly keel and yellowish fins, to which the name refers. It is a freshwater species that lives in rivers and apparently does not enter the sea, although it probably tolerates some salinity at river mouths. As a predator it hunts small fishes and crustaceans in schools. It is a local food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shad?
The Shad has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sharp serrated ventral keel and yellowish fins; predatory herring of freshwater rivers.
Where does the Shad live?
The Shad lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Northern South America; rivers.
How big does the Shad get?
The Shad grows to a maximum of about 73 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Shad dangerous to humans?
No, the Shad is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Shad edible?
Yes, the Shad is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pellona
More from the family Pristigasteridae
Want the complete picture on the Shad?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shad is one of 12,519 species in the app.