Smoothbelly sardinella (Amblygaster leiogaster)

Latin name

Amblygaster leiogaster

Other names

Blue sardine, blue sprat, bluebait.

Identification

The body of the Smoothbelly Sardinella is slightly compressed at the sides and covered with cycloid scales, the head is bare. Profiles of back and abdomen are rounded. There is a weakly expressed abdominal keel. 

Features of fish fins

Dorsal fin has 13-21 rays; anal fin has 12-23 rays. 

Fish colouring

Dorsal coloration dark blue, sides and abdomen silvery white. There are no spots on the sides.

Distribution

They inhabit the Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean from the east coast of Africa to Okinawa and off the coast of Western Australia. 

Habitat

This pelagic marine tropical fish is found in coastal waters down to depths of 50 meters.

Size

Maximum length is 23 cm. The average length does not exceed 18 cm.

Behavior

A gregarious coastal species.

Food and feeding habits

The diet consists of zooplankton.

Reproduction

These fish spawn by gathering in schools. 

Fishing

Serve as a local fishery.

Relationship with a person

A species harmless to humans, used for food.