Clupanodon thrissa (Linnaeus, 1758)
Chinese gizzard shad
photo by CAFS

Family:  Dorosomatidae (Gizzard shads and sardinellas)
Max. size:  26 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  pelagic-neritic; freshwater; brackish; marine; depth range 0 - 50 m, anadromous
Distribution:  Northwest Pacific: China, apparently south to Viet Nam (Philippine records of Fowler appear doubtful). Eastern Indian Ocean: Specimens were recorded from Phuket Island, Thailand (Andaman Sea).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 22-28. Body moderately deep; belly with 16 to 19 (usually 18) + 9 to 12 (usually 10 or 11) total 27 to 31 (usually 29 or 30) scutes; pre-dorsal scutes present, 17 to 26 (usually 20 to 25). gill rakers of first arch at least 3/4 length of gill filaments. Vertebrae 43 to 46 (usually 44 or 45). A dark spot behind gill opening, followed by further spots on flank.
Biology:  Found in coastal waters and in rivers, presumably tolerating brackish water, if not fully fresh condition. More data needed.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 02 March 2017 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  reports of ciguatera poisoning


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