Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotback herring (Herklotsichthys punctatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The spotback herring is a small herring relative from the Indo-West Pacific, including the Red Sea and Persian Gulf. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a row of dark spots on the back. It schools in large, dense numbers in shallow coastal and estuarine water and filters small zooplankton from the water. It is an important forage and bait fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotback herring?
The Spotback herring has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Row of small dark dorsal spots; densely schooling coastal herring
Where does the Spotback herring live?
The Spotback herring lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Spotback herring get?
The Spotback herring grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Spotback herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotback herring 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 Spotback herring edible?
Yes, the Spotback herring is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Spotback herring and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Herklotsichthys
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotback herring?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotback herring is one of 12,519 species in the app.