How to Identify Hilsa Shad

To identify Hilsa Shad (Tenualosa ilisha), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-white on the flanks and belly, with a darker, bluish-green dorsal surface. Often exhibits a golden or iridescent sheen, especially when fresh. Juveniles may have a series of dark spots along the flanks, which fade with age.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Deep, compressed body, Prominent keel of scutes along the belly (29-33 pre-pelvic and 12-15 post-pelvic scutes), Small head relative to body size, Absence of lateral line, Large, cycloid scales

Dorsal fin

Single, short-based dorsal fin located mid-body, typically with 18-20 soft rays.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, symmetrical lobes.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small pectoral fins, positioned low on the body, with 14-16 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small, abdominal, and located beneath the dorsal fin origin. Anal fin is long, with 19-23 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a distinctly deep and compressed body, giving it a flattened appearance from side to side.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Observe the characteristic silvery-white flanks and belly contrasting with a darker, bluish-green back. Iridescent sheen is often present.

3. 3

   Ventral Scutes

   Feel or observe the prominent, sharp, saw-like keel of bony scutes along the belly, a key clupeid feature.

4. 4

   Head Size

   Note the relatively small head in proportion to its deep body.

5. 5

   Absence of Lateral Line

   Unlike many fish, Hilsa Shad lacks a visible lateral line, which can be a distinguishing feature.

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