Pellona ditchela

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Pellona ditchela Day 165

Pellona ditchela, commonly known as the Indian river shad, is a species of fish in the family Pristigasteridae. It is found in freshwater and brackish environments across the Indian subcontinent, including major rivers and estuaries. This species plays a significant role in local ecosystems and is also of importance to regional fishing industries.

Description

Pellona ditchela is characterized by its elongated body, silver coloration, and distinctively forked tail. The fish typically reaches a length of up to 40 cm, though larger specimens have been reported. It has a protruding lower jaw and large eyes, adaptations that aid in its predatory lifestyle. The dorsal and anal fins are positioned far back on the body, near the tail, which enhances its swimming agility.

Habitat and Distribution

The Indian river shad is predominantly found in the river systems of the Indian subcontinent, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Indus rivers. Its habitat ranges from purely freshwater regions to brackish parts of estuaries where rivers meet the sea. The adaptability of Pellona ditchela to different salinity levels allows it to migrate between these environments seasonally, often influenced by the monsoon rains.

Diet and Behavior

Pellona ditchela is an omnivorous species, feeding on a mix of plankton, small fish, and aquatic insects. Its diet varies with age, location, and available food sources. This fish is known for its schooling behavior, especially during feeding and migration periods, which provides safety in numbers from predators.

Economic Importance

The Indian river shad is of considerable economic importance in the regions it inhabits. It is a target for commercial and subsistence fishing, providing a source of protein and livelihood for many communities. The fish is caught using traditional nets and traps. Despite its significance, there is a lack of comprehensive management practices for its fisheries, leading to concerns over sustainability and stock health.

Conservation Status

There is currently limited information on the population trends of Pellona ditchela, and it has not been extensively assessed for conservation status by organizations such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many freshwater species in South Asia, it faces threats from habitat degradation, pollution, and overfishing. Conservation efforts and more detailed studies are needed to ensure the sustainability of its populations.

See Also

• Pristigasteridae
• Fisheries in India
• Ecosystems of the Indian subcontinent