Spratelloides delicatulus

Spratelloides delicatulus, commonly known as the Delicate Round Herring or Delicate Sprat, is a species of ray-finned fish from the family Clupeidae. This species is found in the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean, where it is an important species for commercial fisheries.

Description

The Delicate Sprat is a small, slender fish that typically reaches a length of 7 cm. It has a bluish-green back and silver sides and belly. The species is characterized by its round body shape and delicate, transparent appearance.

Distribution and Habitat

The Delicate Sprat is widely distributed in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is found from the east coast of Africa to the Hawaiian Islands, north to Japan, and south to Australia. The species inhabits coastal waters and is often found in large schools near the surface.

Diet

The diet of the Delicate Sprat primarily consists of plankton, small crustaceans, and other tiny marine organisms. They are filter feeders, using their gill rakers to strain their food from the water.

Commercial Importance

The Delicate Sprat is an important species for commercial fisheries in many parts of its range. It is often caught using purse seines and is sold fresh, dried, or canned. The species is also used as bait in some fisheries.

Conservation Status

The Delicate Sprat is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, overfishing and habitat degradation could potentially threaten its populations in the future.

See Also

• Clupeidae
• Commercial fishing
• Ray-finned fish