A schooling species found in coastal waters (in deep bays, Ref. 9563), appearing off Tasmanian shores in large schools (especially in August-November) and often entering estuaries (e.g. of Tamar and Derwent Rivers; said to ascend the former as far as Launceston in March). More data needed.
Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 13 - 21; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 12 - 23. Lower jaw slightly projecting, gill cover without bony radiating striae; belly not sharply keeled, scutes rounded; last two anal fin rays not enlarged. Pterotic bulla absent.: fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
Behavioural data for Australian sprat is currently being reviewed.
Marine; brackish; pelagic-neritic; depth range 0 - 50 m . Subtropical; 38°S - 45°S, 139°E - 149°E Southwest Pacific: Australia and New Zealand.
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clupea bassensis | McCulloch | 1911 | Synonym |
| Meletta novaehollandiae | Valenciennes | 1847 | Synonym |
| Sprattus bassensis | McCulloch | 1911 | Synonym |
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 2 records indexed .
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