Neoopisthopterus cubanus Hildebrand, 1948
Cuban longfin herring
Sardina cubana,  Cuban Longfin Herring
Neoopisthopterus cubanus
photo by FAO

Family:  Pristigasteridae (Pristigasterids)
Max. size:  15 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  pelagic-neritic; marine
Distribution:  Western Central Atlantic: Cuba but probably more widespread.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 39-43. Mouth terminal, lower jaw not strongly projecting; teeth very small or minute. Belly with 23 - 28 scutes. Pelvic fins absent. Closely resembles C. bleekerianus but that species has canine-like teeth and pelvic fins (Ref. 188). Side with a whitish band. Upper surface of head brownish (Ref. 37032).
Biology:  Occurs in coastal waters.
IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (VU); Date assessed: 28 February 2017 (B2ab(i,ii,iii)) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless
Country info:  Generally of no interest to fisheries. Also Ref. 188, 26340.


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