The Smalltoothed pellonula (Pellonula leonensis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The smalltoothed pellonula is a small, silvery herring-like fish of the family Dorosomatidae (formerly Clupeidae) reaching about 12 cm. The slender, laterally compressed body has a sharp, saw-toothed belly keel and an upturned mouth. The species forms large schools in rivers, lakes, lagoons and estuaries of West Africa and tolerates brackish water; many populations move between fresh and brackish water. With fine gill rakers it filters and hunts zooplankton, insect larvae and shrimp-like crustaceans. Through its great numbers it is an important commercial fish for the West African inland fishery - sold fresh, smoked or dried - and a main prey for larger predators.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smalltoothed pellonula?
The Smalltoothed pellonula has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Smalltoothed pellonula live?
The Smalltoothed pellonula lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Smalltoothed pellonula get?
The Smalltoothed pellonula grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Smalltoothed pellonula dangerous to humans?
No, the Smalltoothed pellonula is harmless to humans.
Is the Smalltoothed pellonula edible?
Yes, the Smalltoothed pellonula is a highly prized food fish.
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Pellonula
More from the family Clupeidae
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