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Bony Bream

Bony Bream

Nematalosa Erebi

Quick Facts

Scientific name Nematalosa Erebi

Other names Bardijarr Oobanyba, Australian River Gizzard Shad, Gizzard Shad, Gunangurri, Hairback Herring, Laarri, Lakarr, Leichhardtian Bony Bream, Melon Fish, Northwest Bony Bream, Pyberry, Queensland Bony Bream, Tukari

Size Up to 32 cm (12.5 in)

Weight Up to 1 kg (2.2 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Freshwater areas, rivers, streams, dams, lakes & water holes

Depth Range 1 - 5 m (16 ft)

Interesting Info

The bony bream is a species of fish found in freshwater and estuarine habitats across Australia.
It is a distinctive and unique fish species that is easily recognised by its elongated and thread-like body shape, silvery-grey coloration, and distinctive scale pattern.
Bony breams are opportunistic feeders that consume a variety of aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and algae.
They are generally found in slow-moving or still water bodies, such as rivers, creeks, and lakes.
During the breeding season, which usually occurs from October to January, males develop a series of small bumps along their lower jaw.
Female bony bream can lay up to 100,000 eggs during a single breeding season.
They are an important food source for many predatory fish species, such as Murray cod, barramundi, and golden perch.
Estimates of lifespan are up to 15 years, with an average of 5 – 7 years.

Species Interaction

Commercial & Recreational Fishing

Bony bream are commercially and recreationally fished in Australia. They are a popular sport fish species and are sought after by anglers for their fighting ability and availability. Commercially they are often caught using gill nets, seine nets, and traps, and are sold fresh or frozen for food or bait.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Clupeiformes

Family: Clupeidae

Genus: Nematalosa

Species: Nematalosa Erebi

Conservation Status

The conservation status of bony bream in Australia is classified as “Least Concern” according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. This means that there are no major threats to the overall population of bony bream and their numbers are considered stable or increasing.

Fish Taste Quality

Bony bream are considered to be good to eat. They have firm white flesh that is mild in flavour, with a slightly sweet taste. Their texture is relatively fine, and they have few bones, which makes them easy to fillet and prepare.

Taste Rating: 3/5