The Australian sprat (Sprattus novaehollandiae) is a brackish-water fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The Australian sprat is a herring (Clupeidae) from cool coastal and open water of southern Australia. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, bright-silvery body with a keeled belly. As a social schooling fish it swims in large schools in open water and filters plankton and small crustaceans. It is an important link in the food web and a bait and food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian sprat?
The Australian sprat has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Australian sprat live?
The Australian sprat lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Australian sprat get?
The Australian sprat grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Australian sprat dangerous to humans?
No, the Australian sprat is harmless to humans.
Is the Australian sprat edible?
Yes, the Australian sprat is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sprattus
More from the family Clupeidae
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