Habitat
The blue sprat is a small mid-water species that occurs in bays, inlets and coastal waters. Usually an inshore schooling fish, it is also found around shallow offshore reefs in depths from 0-50 metres.
Fishing information
May be taken with a cast net, beach seine or bait net. This species is often used as bait by recreational anglers. It is preyed upon by larger, pelagic fishes, marine mammals and seabirds.
Handling
Will shed scales and die quickly when taken out of the water so should be chilled rapidly to prevent deterioration.
Cooking
These small fish can be eaten deep fried or grilled, gutted and gilled with the head on or off.