General Description

One of three species of the genus Trachurus found along the southern coast. The three are difficult to distinguish. All have strong scutes in the straight part of the lateral line, some scutes in the curved part, long falcate pectoral fins, an additional lateral line just below the dorsal fin base to the beginning of the second dorsal fin. The anterior raised part of the lateral line is parallel to the body margin, accessory lateral line below base of dorsal fin terminating below 5th-11th (usually 7th-9th) segmented rays. Dark blue green above, blending to silvery grey below the midline, with yellow tinges on scutes and fins; a black spot dorsally on hind margin of gill cover; back generally brownish in estuarine fish, more blue-green in coastal waters. To 50 cm.

Biology

These planktivores form large schools of uniformly-sized individuals. Smaller fishes usually occur at shallower depths.

Habitat

From surface waters to depths of about 500 m.

Open water

Distribution guide

New Zealand and southern Australia.

Species Group

Fishes › Trevallies and allies

Depth

Shallow (1-30 m)
Deep ( > 30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor Midwater

Max Size

50 cm

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Recorded in Australia

Conservation Status

• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Not listed