Fin's Fish Guide
The West African ilisha (Ilisha africana) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Pristigasteridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, in coastal water, estuaries and lagoons; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The West African ilisha is a silvery, herring-like fish of the family Pristigasteridae reaching about 30 cm. The strongly laterally compressed body has a sharp, saw-toothed belly keel and an upturned mouth with a projecting lower jaw. The species forms schools in coastal water, estuaries and lagoons along the West African coast and tolerates brackish water. In open water it filters and hunts zooplankton, shrimp-like crustaceans, small fish and worms. Through its great numbers the West African ilisha is an important commercial fish for the coastal fishery, sold fresh, smoked or dried, and also a main prey for larger predators.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the West African ilisha?
The West African ilisha has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Silvery, herring-like fish with a strongly compressed body, a sharp, serrated belly keel and an upturned mouth.
Where does the West African ilisha live?
The West African ilisha lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, in coastal water, estuaries and lagoons; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the West African ilisha get?
The West African ilisha grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 16 cm.
Is the West African ilisha dangerous to humans?
No, the West African ilisha is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the West African ilisha edible?
Yes, the West African ilisha is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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Status & sources
Same genus Ilisha
More from the family Pristigasteridae
Want the complete picture on the West African ilisha?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the West African ilisha is one of 12,519 species in the app.