Fin's Fish Guide
The Hasselt's sprat (Dussumieria elopsoides) is a saltwater fish of the family Dussumieriidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The rainbow sardine is a herring relative (Dussumieriidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a slender, round-bodied, silvery body with a green-blue back and an iridescent lengthwise band that shows rainbow colours in the light. It is a pelagic coastal fish that swims in large schools near the coast. It feeds on zooplankton it filters from the water. It is a commercial fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hasselt's sprat?
The Hasselt's sprat has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Iridescent, rainbow-coloured longitudinal band; shoaling pelagic coastal sardine.
Where does the Hasselt's sprat live?
The Hasselt's sprat lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific; pelagic near the coast.
How big does the Hasselt's sprat get?
The Hasselt's sprat grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Hasselt's sprat dangerous to humans?
No, the Hasselt's sprat is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Hasselt's sprat edible?
Yes, the Hasselt's sprat is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Hasselt's sprat 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 Dussumieria
More from the family Dussumieriidae
Want the complete picture on the Hasselt's sprat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hasselt's sprat is one of 12,519 species in the app.