Occurs in coastal areas, but also in lagoons and off river mouths, perhaps entering water of lowered salinity . In Southwestern Atlantic preys on proportionally large clupeoid fishes and caridean shrimps. Fishes are distinctively folded in the stomachs of this herring, in about 90% of the cases with their heads and tails pointing head-wards the predator. This herring stands out as the only small-sized species among the predaceous fish-eating clupeiforms. The well developed canine-like teeth are likely related to a piscivorous diet and may play a role in the folding and orientation of fish during prey handling and swallowing . Spawns during the northern winter .
Dorsal spines (total): 0; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 38 - 44. Belly with 16 or 17 (rarely 19) + 9 to 11, total 26 to 28 (rarely 30) scutes. Lower jaw not strongly projecting; strong conical teeth in both jaws, continued as large and small teeth along maxilla blade. Easily recognized by large, canine-like teeth in both jaws . Dorsal fin origin behind midpoint of body; anal fin moderately long, its origin below or in front of dorsal fin origin.: elongated; Cross section: compressed.
Behavioural data for Dogtooth herring is currently being reviewed.
Diet information for Dogtooth herring is currently being compiled.
Marine; brackish; pelagic-neritic; depth range 20 - 60 m . Tropical; 24°N - 25°S, 90°W - 32°W south to Ubatuba, near Santos, Brazil.
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chirocentrodon cladileokae | Tommasi | 1964 | Synonym |
| Chirocentrodon taeniatus | Günther | 1868 | Synonym |
| Ilisha caribbaea | Meek & Hildebrand | 1923 | Synonym |
| Ilisha caribbea | Meek & Hildebrand | 1923 | Synonym |
| Pellona bleekeriana | Poey | 1867 | Synonym |
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) — 6 records indexed .
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