Hilsa Shad and Similar Species
Tenualosa ilisha
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Hilsa Shad. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Toli Shad
Tenualosa toli
Key differences: T. toli generally has a less deep body, a more pointed snout, and fewer ventral scutes (typically 24-27 pre-pelvic and 10-12 post-pelvic) compared to T. ilisha. The dorsal fin origin is also slightly more anterior in T. toli.
Fringescale Sardinella
Sardinella fimbriata
Key differences: Sardinella species are generally smaller, have a more elongated body, and lack the prominent, sharp ventral scutes characteristic of Tenualosa. Their scales are also typically smaller and more numerous.
Longtail Shad
Tenualosa macrura
Key differences: T. macrura has a more elongated body and a significantly longer caudal fin than T. ilisha. Its geographic distribution is also more restricted to Southeast Asia.
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