About Decapterus koheru (Hector, 1875)
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
Kōheru (Decapterus koheru), also called scad, is a ray-finned fish belonging to the genus Decapterus and the family Carangidae.
Geographic Range
This species is endemic to New Zealand, where it ranges from Manawatāwhi / Three Kings Islands down to the southern North Island.
Habitat and Depth Range
It is a schooling, pelagic species that lives in coastal waters, and can be found in shallow bays, harbours, estuaries, near rocky reefs and around offshore islands at depths between 2 metres (6.6 ft) and 90 metres (295.3 ft).
Life Stage Habitat Differences
Juveniles of this species prefer rocky inshore habitats, while adults form dense schools in offshore waters.
Maximum Size
The maximum recorded fork length of kōheru is 40.3 centimetres (15.9 in).
Lifespan and Growth Rate
They have a lifespan of approximately 10 years, and juveniles grow quickly, reaching a fork length of 37 centimetres (15 in) by the age of three.
Diet
Kōheru feed on zooplankton.
Fishery Interest
The species is only of minor interest to commercial fisheries, but it is caught by recreational anglers.
